DOTr commits to the extensive expansion of protected bike lanes in the next five years

In recent years, cycling has experienced a massive surge in popularity. With more and more people opting to hop out of their cars and ride their bikes to work, our government has introduced protected bike lanes for the safety of our bike-riding fellow road users. Although protected bike lanes are a step in the right direction, there’s still a long way to go before bikes are fully integrated and protected on Philippine roads. Recognizing this need, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has introduced its plans to improve cycling conditions in the country.

The DOTr has set itself the objective of expanding the protected bike lanes network to 2,400 kilometers by 2028. Today, the combined bike lane network in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Davao amounts to 564 kilometers. This ambitious plan forms part of the DOTr's "priority programs" to enhance active transport. Since the DOTr’s deadline is in 2028, the agency has five years to make these improvements.

This initiative to expand bike lanes nationwide is in accordance with the National Transport Policy (NTP) and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. The pandemic spurred the increase of cyclists nationwide, hence the greater need for boosting cycling infrastructure. The 2,400 km target distance and five-year time are shaping up to be a difficult challenge for the DOTr, but, only time will tell if this initiative will be successful or not.

While we’re on the topic of cycling, we also think that it's a good time to remind ourselves that initiatives like these will be for naught without proper road discipline and simple empathy for fellow road users. Being behind the wheel of a car does not give us dominance on the road. Everyone deserves to go home safely, regardless if they’re in a car, a motorcycle, or a bike.