Bikers in Filipino households rising for fare saving, health perks – SWS

GOOD EXERCISE Hundreds of cyclists pass along Roxas Boulevard as they complete a 50-kilometer ride to mark National Bicycle Day. (File photo from RICHARD A. REYES)

MANILA, Philippines — At least 36 percent of homes nationwide may be called “cycling households,” a Social Weather Stations (SWS) poll revealed.

SWS defines “cycling households” as families with at least one member who bikes to perform tasks and activities.

The survey was conducted from March 26 to 29, using face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults nationwide.

“This was up from 29 percent in April 2022 and 24 percent in May 2021,” said the agency.

In a special report issued on Thursday, SWS said the household ownership of bicycle to car is at four (4) to one (1) or four bicycles for every car.

The data is similar to those gathered in April 2022 and May 2021.

On the other hand, the figures are higher than the two-is-to-one (2:1) ratio in May 2020, July 2020, and September 2020.

“Thirteen national SWS surveys from May 2020 to March 2023 show that there were more bicycle owners compared to car owners nationwide,” SWS noted.

Most respondents said saving on fares and improving health are the main reasons they are cycling.

The poll also revealed that the percentage of household members who bike for recreational activities is slightly higher than those who bike to do errands.

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