Cycling to Achieve Inclusive Mobility and Accessibility in the Philippines
On March 7, 2023, a webinar entitled “Cycling to Achieve Inclusive Mobility and Accessibility in the Philippines” was organized by the Inclusive Transportation Group of the UP National Center for Transportation Studies.
 
The webinar aimed to enlighten the public regarding the contributions, advantages, and benefits of cycling in achieving inclusivity and accessibility, recognize/identify policies and programs of the government as well as the local government units relating to active transport, and identify issues and challenges of cyclists and impart their experiences and learnings.
 
The webinar was participated by around 300 participants coming from different local government units and public and private agencies nationwide. It featured several distinguished speakers who shared their insights and experiences on cycling as a means of achieving inclusivity and accessibility. Ms. Keisha Alena Mayuga, the Director of AltMobility PH, discussed the contribution, advantages, and benefits of cycling in achieving inclusivity and accessibility in the Philippines. EnP. Eldon Joshua N. Dionisio, the Program Manager of the Active Transport Program Management Office – Office of the Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure, DOTr, shared DOTr’s policies and programs relating to active transport. Mr. Brian M. Geli, the City Information Officer / OIC – City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, City of San Juan, discussed San Juan City’s sustainable urban mobility initiatives. Arch. Wilfredo S. Sy, Jr., the Technical Support Specialist, City Planning and Development Office, Iloilo City Hall, shared i-BIKE, a program promoting the development of Iloilo City bike culture. Finally, Ms. Jaramia L. Amarnani, the creator of the Pinay Bike Commuter Facebook page, shared her experiences and advocacy through KabaBIKEihan Advocacy.
 
Mr. Jerome N. Ballarta delivered the program orientation, while Ms. Teresita R. Ronquillo introduced the speakers. The event was opened by Engr. Aileen U. Mappala, the Director of UP Diliman Transportation Management Office, and was moderated by Dr. Crispin Emmanuel D. Diaz of the School of Urban and Regional Planning. Dr. Jun T. Castro, the Director of UP-NCTS, provided the synthesis and closing remarks.
 

Through this webinar, the UP National Center for Transportation Studies is taking an important step towards addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By promoting cycling as a means of achieving inclusive mobility and accessibility, we are contributing to the creation of more sustainable and livable cities. We hope that this event inspires more local government units and organizations to work towards a future where sustainable transportation is the norm.