Quezon City Mayor Maria Josefina “Joy” Belmonte and the local government have been commended for their dedication to promoting sustainable alternative transportation and providing safe bike lanes for residents. Their efforts were recognized at the recent 2023 National Bike Day Awards and Recognitions in Iloilo City, organized by the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
Mayor Belmonte was specifically acknowledged for her leadership and initiative in implementing programs and policies that support active transportation. In an interview with The Manila Times, she expressed her gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the city’s achievements at the event. Quezon City received the prestigious Gold Award, along with the Bike Lane Infrastructure Quality Award, showcasing their commitment to creating high-quality bike lanes.
The city’s dedication to promoting cycling as a viable mode of transportation was further acknowledged at the Mobility Awards 2023. Quezon City was honored as the Most Bicycle-Friendly City, earning a gold and ranking first among all cities in the country. This recognition was a testament to the city’s ongoing efforts to prioritize the safety and accessibility of active transportation.
Iloilo City and Baguio City were also recognized for their exemplary implementation of bike lanes, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among local government units (LGUs) in promoting sustainable transportation options. The Mobility Awards, organized by the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC), MNL Moves, Climate Reality Project-Philippines, 350.Org Pilipinas, and Pinay Bike Commuter, aims to commend LGUs, workplaces, and commercial establishments for their contributions to creating better and safer roads for active transportation.
Mayor Belmonte expressed her gratitude for the recognition and reiterated the city’s commitment to road safety and accessibility. She emphasized that the awards received from both the national government and the private sector serve as a testament to Quezon City’s dedication to fostering a better, safer, and more accessible active transportation system for its residents.
One of the city’s key initiatives is the conversion of the Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility, a former dumpsite, into a bike park. This transformation provides cyclists with a dedicated space to ride their bikes while enjoying the scenic view of the metropolis. Additionally, the City Tourism Department has taken the lead in promoting the “Katipunan” Freedom Trail, which not only highlights the historical significance of the Katipunan but also encourages the use of bike lanes.
To ensure the safety of cyclists, the city government, through its Parks Development and Administration Department and the Department of Public Order and Safety-Green Transport Office (DPOS-GTO), has placed plant boxes along the major roads where bike lanes are located. This measure aims to provide physical protection and separation between cyclists and motorized vehicles. Furthermore, the DPOS-GTO is actively working on rehabilitating the existing 173-kilometer bike lanes to encourage more residents to embrace cycling as a means of commuting.
Mayor Belmonte reiterated the importance of active transportation in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle while reducing carbon emissions, aligning with the city’s commitment to the global community. Quezon City’s recognition at the national level and its continuous efforts to improve and expand its bike infrastructure demonstrate its dedication to creating a sustainable and livable city for all QCitizens.
Source: The Manila Times
