DOTr to continue promoting cycling, walking, light electric vehicles

BIKING FOR MOTHER EARTH | Bikers promote environment-friendly and safe transportation in a “pedal for people and planet” campaign in Quezon City on June 5, 2022. (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) committed on Friday to continue promoting cycling, walking, and the use of light electric vehicles amid proposals to modify bicycle and motorcycle lanes in Edsa.

According to the DOTr, in line with the National Transport Policy (NTP) and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 (PDP), it will commit to continue promoting the use of non-motorized transport (NMT) and light electric vehicles (LEVs).

“As DOTr seeks to solve the problem of traffic, it is designating and reclaiming road space to provide safe infrastructure for more efficient and sustainable modes of transport such as bike lanes and walkways,” the DOTr said in a statement.

Additionally, under those initiatives, the DOTr said the non-motorized vehicles are also accorded “the highest priority in the hierarchy of road users,” prioritizing the development of active transport infrastructure.

“Therefore, the Department will continue its Active Transport program with support from the Interagency Technical Working Group for Active Transport and local governments,” the DOTr said.

“The DOTr heeds to the long-overlooked clamor of public and active transport commuters to have better commuting experience by pushing for expanded and safer walkways and bike lanes, most especially along national roads,” it added.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority announced on Wednesday that it is studyingproposals to remove the motorcycle and bicycle lane along the stretch of Edsa.