Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman has signed the issuance of the Special Allotment Release Order amounting to P705 million to the Department of Transportation, to cover the implementation of the Active Transport Bike Share System and Safe Pathways Program in Metropolitan Areas.
According to the Budget Secretary, the program aims to embed sustainable and active mobility in the country’s overall transportation system.
“Achieving an improved transportation system toward a better quality of life for all Filipinos calls for a multisectoral approach. President Bongbong Marcos was very particular when he directed us to provide the necessary budgetary support to the transport sector, as we see this as one aspect of the solution,” Pangandaman said.
“We are one with bikers and active transport advocates in providing cyclists a comfortable and safe space on our streets,” she added.
The appropriated amount for the program will be used to construct protected bike lanes, procure bike racks, improve end-of-trip cycling infrastructure, construct safe and accessible pedestrian pathways and sidewalks, and upgrade existing pop-up bike lanes into permanent bike lanes.
Aside from increasing the accessibility of key activity areas and fundamental facilities through supporting the development of active transport, the program will also prioritize providing a sustainable transportation option that is cohesive, direct, safe, comfortable and attractive to the public.
The program is expected to reduce carbon emissions in metropolitan areas as well as significantly improve overall public health and safety through upgraded bike and pedestrian facilities.
To further promote indirect economic and environmental benefits such as better quality of life, transportation cost savings, time savings and improved air quality, the program will also focus on reducing road congestion as motor vehicle users shift to more efficient modes of transport.