Majority of Filipinos believe that active transport is possible in their locality and should be given priority, according to a nationwide Social Weather Station (SWS) survey. The survey comes amid a push by the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to promote active transport among communities.
In a November 2020 SWS poll commissioned by DOH, 85 percent of Filipinos across all areas and socio-demographic groups believe that their city or municipality can become a great place for walking and cycling. Meanwhile, 87 percent of them also agreed that roads will be better off if public transportation, bicycles, and pedestrians are given priority over private vehicles.
“The results of this survey demonstrate public support for government efforts to promote active transport. Cycling and walking remain among the safest ways to maintain physical distancing during travel while promoting physical activities,” Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III said. “These forms of physical activity improve the overall health of a person, boost their immune system, and help fight diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.”
Meanwhile, Transportation Assistant Secretary Mark Steven Pastor said that the DOTr is committed to work on policies, projects, and programs to institute appropriate infrastructure for active transport users. “As we start off with increasing the accessibility of activity areas and fundamental facilities through the bike lane networks in metropolitan areas of Manila, Cebu, and Davao, feasibility studies will also get underway to establish bike lane networks in all cities in the country,” he said.
“A healthy locality promotes and supports the physical activities of its citizens. We encourage local government units to put in policies and mechanisms in place that will make their localities walkable, bikeable and breathable,” said Sec. Duque.
The DOH last year released a Health Promotion Playbook on Active Transport which provides a comprehensive guide for LGUs who wish to roll out their own bicycle lanes. For assistance, LGUs may email [email protected].
(DOH-PR)
