Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III is urging workers to adopt cycling as a primary mode of transportation, positioning it as a viable solution to the region’s persistent traffic congestion.
Speaking at the 129th Tiklop General Assembly on Sunday, Feb. 1, Torre emphasized that the government must remain open to “alternative transport solutions” to alleviate gridlock.
He noted that while dedicated bike lanes are essential on major thoroughfares, “shared streets” are a more practical approach for the city’s narrower secondary roads.
“I am suggesting an alternative—ride a bike,” Torre said, noting that lane splitting can be done safely by experienced cyclists.
Torre identified the lack of workplace facilities as a primary barrier to bike commuting rather than a lack of road access.
To address this, Torre announced plans to formally propose a policy to the Metro Manila Council (MMC) that would offer incentives or subsidies to businesses that provide shower rooms and changing areas for employees who cycle to work.
“What cyclists really need are shower rooms and changing areas at their workplaces,” Torre said.
The proposal comes at a time when several local government units in Metro Manila have begun removing protected bike lanes established during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pio Fortuno Jr., founder of the Tiklop Society of the Philippines, welcomed the initiative, stating that the cycling community now has a “strong voice” within the MMDA.
The move follows recent debates over traffic management, including the Department of Transportation’s recent rejection of a proposal to allow carpooling in the EDSA Busway.