The Interagency Technical Working Group (TWG) on Active Transport said it is committed to working with civil society and local government units (LGUs) to roll out protected bicycle lanes for the benefit of all Filipino road users.
The Interagency Technical Working Group (TWG) on Active Transport is composed of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Department of Health (DOH).
The group said that plans, policies, and guidelines on the development of such infrastructure are already available, and encourages that they be utilized and implemented.
They also reiterated and echoed the call to protect cyclists, pedestrians, and other active transport users, which are the the most vulnerable road users, from fatal road incidents.
“We call on LGUs to take the lead in constructing protected bicycle lane networks in accordance with design standards as set out in DPWH Department Order No. 88, as soon as possible, and to ensure that traffic rules and regulations are enforced correctly to secure the safety of all road users, especially those using light and active transport options,” the group said in a statement.
Last week, a 17-year old girl was run over and immediately killed by a truck while cycling along Caribaan Maharlika Road in Tacloban City.
The agency extended its sympathies and deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones on the death of the young victim.
It said that cycling is one of the most efficient ways to move people across cities and municipalities, especially with the current limitations on public transport. With cycling and other forms of active transport, users can observe physical distancing and maintain open ventilation while traveling.
“We further encourage private logistics and transport service providers to ensure the safety of other road users by fitting their trucks and other large vehicles with safety equipment, including side guards to prevent cyclists and pedestrians from being swept under middle or rear wheels in the event of a collision.”
Finally, the group reminded all road users, most especially motorists, to be respectful and to share the road with others, particularly cyclists and pedestrians who are most vulnerable to road crash incidents. “They have just as much right to use the road as motorists do. We must all do our part to create roads and communities that are safe and accessible to all.”