The Laoag Bypass Road. (PNA photo by Leilanie Adriano)
MANILA – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday showcased the benefits of active transportation, specifically cycling, as an alternative to driving or commuting, during the groundbreaking of the expansion of active transport infrastructure in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
In his speech during the ceremony, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista said active transport, such as cycling and walking, is free and would “steer Laoag City away from the traditional sign of progress – road traffic.”
“It helps us save the environment and at the same, nakakapagbiyahe tayo ng walang cost. Alam mo, ‘yung biking can also reduce traffic congestion (we can travel at no cost. Biking can also reduce traffic congestion),” Bautista said.
He also took note of its health benefits in terms of physical exercise and reduced carbon emissions.
“Itong active transport ay para suportahan natin ang magandang kalusugan ng ating mga mamamayan. At the same time, ‘yung mobility natin does not contribute to carbon emission (Active transport allows us to support public health. At the same time, our mobility does not contribute to carbon emissions),” he said.
Targeted to be completed by the end of the year, the project involves the establishment of 3.2 km. of bike lanes along several portions of the Laoag Bypass Road.
Through the construction of bike lanes in Laoag City and several other parts of the country, the DOTr expects protected bike lane networks to span up to 2,400 km. across the country by 2028. (PNA)
