MANILA –Nearly 3,000 cyclists turned-out for the 18th Tour of the Fireflies with the theme “Kalikasan, Kalusugan, Bisikleta,” that was held at the Oblation Plaza at the University of the Philippines, Diliman.
The momentous event aims to promote the use of bicycle as an alternative means of commute in order to protect the environment by preserving clean air as a zero-emission mode of transportation and uphold sustainable communities as well as to uplift health and fitness.
The program started off with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by a solemn lighting of candles in commemoration of the victims of road traffic accidents. This was then succeeded by the symbolic painting of the UP-bike lane that marks the support of the campus to the meaningful advocacy of the Firefly Brigade.
“We want to promote bicycling not only as a recreational lifestyle and sports activity but also as an environmental activity. We believe that you cannot have health if nature is sick, and you cannot have a healthy experience with bicycling if you are not safe,” Firefly Brigade President Jack Yabut said.
People of all ages and different walks of life paced through the fun and leisurely 20 km route within UP Diliman.
Cash prizes and a Shimano bike as the grand reward were also given to the participants whose costumes stood-out of the crowd and best represented mother nature.
The Tour of the Fireflies launched its first annual event in 1999 and has grown to a much-anticipated national celebration, whose campaign has brought out more solutions and ways to better help and conserve the environment. (Meg Siozon/PTV Sports)
