Interior chief Abalos promotes ‘best biking practices’ among LGUs

By Joel E. Zurbano

SECRETARY Benjamin Abalos Jr. of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday urged local government units (LGUs) to promote “active transport and sustain best biking practices.”

“We continuously encourage our LGUs to provide means for active transport, through the establishment of protected bike lanes, to help ease traffic congestion and promote sustainable mobility. We can take great inspiration from the LGU Bike Lane awardees who made it happen in their localities,” Abalos said, addressing the conferment of the National Bike Day Lane Awards.

Last year’s LGU Bike Lane Awar- dees were Iloilo City, Quezon City, and Mandaue City while those who received exemplary awards were Alaminos City and Pasig City. Also recognized were cities of Baguio and Taguig.

“We thank the LGU Bike Lane awardees for sharing valuable insights on how they were able to establish safe and accessible bike lanes and pedestrian infrastruc- ture in their areas. This will go a long way in encouraging other LGUs to follow their example,” the secretary said.

The DILG earlier issued Memorandum Circular No. 2020-100 encouraging all LGUs to promote and make active transportation accessible as a means to support people’s mobility within their respective areas of jurisdiction.