Quezon City council studies designation of bike lanes

MANILA, Philippines — A proposal to designate bicycle lanes in Quezon City’s major thoroughfares is up for review by the local council.

The proposed resolution, drafted by third district councilor Allan Benedict Reyes, pushes for the clear marking by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the local department of public order and safety (DPOS) of bike lanes around the city.

The proposal has been referred to the council’s committees on public order and security and illegal drugs, and on transportation for further study.

Reyes explained that designating bicycle lanes would ensure the safety of local bikers and encourage the use of the alternative mode of transportation by the city’s residents, thereby decongesting Quezon City streets.

“Due to the persistent problem on heavy traffic of motor vehicles, the city government of Quezon City aims to help in solving such problem by offering alternative modes of transportation,” he said.

He, however, pointed out a setback in the city government’s effort where some major highways and roads “do not have lanes specifically identified for bicycles and similar vehicles.”

Thus, the councilor pointed out, there is a need for both the MMDA and the local DPOS to clearly designate and mark bicycle lanes in the city.