Republic of the Philippines 
House of Representatives 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Twentieth Congress 
First Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. 4271 
Introduced by Representatives Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Yedda 
Marie K. Romualdez, Andrew Julian K. Romualdez, and Jude A. Acidre 
AN ACT 
INSTITUTIONALIZING ACTIVE TRANSPORT BY ESTABLISHING A 
SAFE PATHWAYS NETWORK OF BICYCLE LANES, WALKWAYS, 
AND SLOW STREETS 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 15, Article II of the 1987 Constitution guarantees the protection 
and promotion of the right to health of the people. Likewise, Section 16 of the 
same Article ensures the protection and advancement of the right of the people to 
a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of 
nature. In adherence to these provisions, this bill seeks to institutionalize active 
transport by establishing a safe pathways network of bicycle lanes, walkways, 
and slow streets. 
Majority of Filipinos are reliant on public transportation. Quarantine 
protocols during the pandemic halted the operation of all forms of public 
transport, thereby affecting not only the mobility of those who needed to perform 
essential activities outside their home but also the economy. This underscored the 
need for infrastructure and a shift in mindset to support sustainable and healthy 
alternatives such as active transport. 
Active transport, primarily walking and cycling, has been increasingly 
integrated into the country’s transport planning, reversing decades of car-centered 
development. Studies highlight its wide-ranging benefits: stronger social 
cohesion, better public health, higher land values, reduced congestion, and lower 
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pollution. Walking remains the most widely used mode, serving as a key link to 
public transport and other trip segments, while cycling offers an affordable, low-
emission alternative that reduces car dependency.1 
Further, it strengthens the country’s commitment to align its policies with 
the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular: SDG 
3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 
(Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and 
Communities); SDG 13 (Climate Action); and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the 
Goals). These policies not only reduce environmental impacts but also improve 
inclusivity, health, and economic opportunities.2 
While efficient public transport remains vital for economic recovery, 
institutionalizing active transport is equally important. It reduces carbon 
emissions, improves road safety, and lowers healthcare costs by encouraging 
physical activity. By complementing public transport, active mobility strengthens 
resilience and contributes to a healthier, more sustainable, and more inclusive 
urban future. 
 This measure has been filed since the 18th Congress. During the 19th 
Congress, a substitute bill consolidating seven (7) pertinent House bills was 
approved by the Committees on Transportation, Sustainable Development Goals, 
and Appropriations. The substitute bill proposes the following reforms: 
•
Safe Pathways Network. Institutionalizes bicycle lanes, walkways,
and slow streets with safety as the paramount concern (Sec. 4) while
ensures adherence of all users of non-motorized vehicles and electric
personal mobility devices shall, as far as applicable, to traffic rules and
regulations (Sec. 6).
•
Strengthened NGAs and LGUs. Provides additional duties and
responsibilities to ensure the safe use of bicycle lanes, as well as the use
of non-motorized vehicles and electric personal mobility devices (Sec.
6) including establishment of information and education campaigns
(Sec. 9), inclusion of include non-motorized vehicles and electric
personal mobility devices in the allocation of road space on national and
local roads (Sec. 10), annual reporting to Congress (Sec. 11).
•
Harmonized Public and Private Sectors. Mandates both public and
private sectors to put up the necessary infrastructure facilities (e.g.
bicycle racks and other end-of-trip facilities) and programs and to
1 https://ncts.upd.edu.ph/tssp/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/TSSP2022_Vol5-No1_02-Tolentino-and-Sigua.pdf 
2 Department of Transportation (DOTr) Active Transport Strategic Master Plan (ATSMP) Inception Report 2025 


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provide, as far as practicable, additional support, benefits, subsidies, 
and training that will promote active transport (Sec. 5, 7, 8). 
 
 In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FERDINAND MARTIN G. ROMUALDEZ 
 
 
 
 
 
YEDDA MARIE K. ROMUALDEZ 
 
 
 
 
 
ANDREW JULIAN K. ROMUALDEZ 
 
 
 
 
 
JUDE A. ACIDRE 
 
 


Republic of the Philippines 
House of Representatives 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Twentieth Congress 
First Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. 4271 
Introduced by Representatives Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, Yedda 
Marie K. Romualdez, Andrew Julian K. Romualdez, and Jude A. Acidre 
AN ACT 
INSTITUTIONALIZING ACTIVE TRANSPORT BY ESTABLISHING A 
SAFE PATHWAYS NETWORK OF BICYCLE LANES, WALKWAYS, 
AND SLOW STREETS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress  assembled: 
Section 1. Short Title. – This Act shall be known as the “Walkable and 
Bikeable Communities Act.” 
 Section 2. Declaration of Policy. – The Constitution mandates the State to 
protect and advance the right of the Filipino people to a balanced and healthful 
ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature, to protect and promote 
the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. 
 The State also affirms the need for infrastructure and a change in mindset 
to encourage and accommodate sustainable and healthy modes of active transport 
such as walking, biking, and the use of other non-motorized vehicles and to 


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provide safe and convenient pathways for commuters. It further acknowledges 
the need to provide quick solutions to long-standing mobility issues brought to 
light by this pandemic and that may arise again in other emergency situations. 
 
 Prioritizing active transport will result in reduced carbon emissions, 
reduced road congestion, less use of energy and resources, as well as less 
dependence on oil, lightening the impact of oil price shocks. It will also provide 
multiple health benefits and enhance the quality of life. 
 
 These are also in line with the State’s commitment to the Sustainable 
Development Goals (SDGs), in particular: SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being); 
SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy); SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and 
Infrastructure); SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities); SDG 13 (Climate 
Action); and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). 
 
 Section 3.  Definition of Terms. – As used in this Act: 
 
a. Active transport refers to physical activity undertaken as a means of 
transport, such as walking or cycling and the use of other non-motorized 
vehicles; 
 
b.  Electric personal mobility devices refer to any electric motorized device 
exclusively used for transporting an individual. This includes electric 
bicycles and electric kick scooters, excluding motorcycles, tricycles, and 
other similar modes of transport; 
 
c. End-of-trip facilities refer to facilities that cater to active transport users’ 
needs at their destinations, which may include shower and changing rooms, 


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short and long-term bicycle parking, bicycle repair stations, and lockers, 
among others; 
 
d. Non-motorized vehicles refer to all forms of transportation that do not rely 
on an engine or motor for movement, including, but not limited to, bicycles 
and small wheeled non-motorized transport, such as skateboards, push 
scooters, and handcarts; and, 
 
e. Slow streets refer to local roads providing safe and convenient access and 
use by restricting motor vehicle access, use, or speed limits on certain days 
or hours in the day, or any combination of such measures as may be 
determined by the concerned local government unit (LGU), and 
prioritizing access and use by pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-
motorized vehicle users. 
 
Section 4.  Safe Pathways Network. – Within twelve (12) months from the 
effectivity of this Act, the Safe Pathways Network shall be established for the use 
of active transport: Provided, That the use of electric personal mobility devices 
may be allowed subject to the guidelines set by the LGUs, in consultation with 
the Department of Transportation (DOTr). 
 
 The Safe Pathways Network shall consist of the following: 
 
 a. Bicycle lanes. LGUs, in consultation with the DOTr and the Department 
of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), shall identify and create a network of 
bicycle lanes, which may be temporary or permanent in nature. The temporary 
lanes alternatively known as pop-up lanes shall be set up, whenever necessary, 
including during emergency situations: Provided, That along national roads in 


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Metro Manila, the DOTr, in coordination with the DPWH and the Metro Manila 
Development Authority (MMDA), shall be the lead implementing agency. 
 
 Pop-up bicycle lanes may be marked with removable tapes and mobile 
signs, which can easily be placed and removed as necessary. Other physical 
barriers may also be used. 
 
 The bicycle lanes shall, as much as practicable, directly connect users to 
essential destinations, such as medical facilities, public and private facilities 
frequented by people, schools, and other similar places that may be identified. 
Motorcycles, tricycles, and other similar modes of transport, whether powered by 
fossil fuel or electricity, are prohibited from using the bicycle lanes unless 
otherwise designed for sharing with such modes of transport. 
 
 b. Walkways. Walkways shall be designated or constructed for the use of 
pedestrians, including the use of strollers and other children’s mobility 
equipment. Walkways may also be shared with non-motorized vehicles and 
electric personal mobility devices, subject to the guidelines set by the LGUs and 
considering the safety of pedestrians. 
 
 c. Slow streets. To complement the network of bicycle lanes, LGUs shall 
create a designated network of people-oriented slow streets, which may be 
temporary or permanent, that will provide safe and convenient access and use of 
specific local roads. Speed limits, access on certain days or hours in the day by 
motorized vehicles in slow streets, or any combination of such measures shall be 
determined by the concerned LGU. Motor vehicles of residents, delivery and 
trash collection vehicles servicing the area of the slow streets, and emergency 


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services shall have access to slow streets subject to restrictions to be imposed by 
the LGU. 
 
 Slow streets shall be clearly marked with signage specifying the 
restrictions. LGUs shall identify priority areas for implementation within their 
jurisdiction. The DOTr and DPWH may provide assistance in the identification 
of slow streets. 
 
 Section 5. Institutional Facilities Pathways Priority. – LGUs shall 
coordinate with public and private institutions within their jurisdiction frequented 
by the public, such as but not limited to healthcare facilities and institutions, 
schools, churches, and government offices, to establish bicycle lanes, walkways 
and slow streets that can connect and provide safe access for the employees, 
customers and clients of such institutions as well as the general public, and to 
encourage the establishment of end-of-trip facilities within such institutions. 
 
Special attention shall be given to the safety of healthcare workers and 
patients who use active transport to hospitals and other healthcare facilities. 
 
 Section 6. Traffic Rules and Regulations. – All users of non-motorized 
vehicles and electric personal mobility devices shall, as far as applicable, obey 
traffic signals, signs and markers, road pavement markings, right-of-way, and 
other traffic rules and regulations. 
 
 The LGUs, in consultation with the DOTr and other appropriate agencies, 
shall issue guidelines for the safe use of bicycle lanes and the use of non-
motorized vehicles and electric personal mobility devices. 
 


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 Section 7. Bicycle Racks and Other End-of-Trip Facilities. – All public 
places, government offices, schools, places of work, mass transit and public 
utility vehicle terminals, and commercial establishments, including but not 
limited to malls, banks, and hospitals, shall provide, as far as practicable, secure 
bicycle or multi-use racks and other end-of-trip facilities, as needed. 
 
 Section 8. Role of Public and Private Sectors. – Both the public and 
private sectors shall promote active transport as a sustainable and healthy means 
of transportation and develop the Safe Pathways Network as provided under 
Section 4 of this Act, by putting up the necessary infrastructure facilities and 
programs. Further, the said sectors shall also provide, as far as practicable, 
additional support, benefits, subsidies, and training that will promote active 
transport. 
 
 LGUs shall incorporate the creation of the Safe Pathways Network and 
their corresponding infrastructure in their local development plans. 
 
 Section 9. Information and Education Campaign. – The DOTr, in 
coordination with other government agencies and the private sector, shall 
establish an information and education campaign on the importance of a shift to 
a sustainable and healthy mode of transportation, and the establishment and use 
of the Safe Pathways Network. The campaign shall be designed for all present 
and potential active transport users, traffic enforcers, motorists, non-motorized 
vehicle and electric personal mobility device users, the commuting public, and 
the community in general. 
 
 Section 10. Design and Construction of Permanent Bicycle Lanes and 
Walkways. – Permanent bicycle lanes and walkways shall be designated or 


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constructed with safety as the paramount concern. As much as practicable, 
permanent bicycle lanes and walkways shall be physically separated from the 
main road through physical barriers or shall be elevated or otherwise constructed 
separately from the main road. 
 
 
In areas where the physical separation of bicycle lanes and walkways is not 
possible, the roads shall be adapted, as far as practicable, for shared use with 
active transport users. Painted road markers may also be used for roads with 
limited space. 
 
 
The DPWH, in coordination with the DOTr and LGUs, shall revise its 
manuals and guidelines for road design and construction to include non-
motorized vehicles and electric personal mobility devices in the allocation of road 
space on national and local roads, and to promote the safety of active transport 
and electric personal mobility device users. 
 
 Section 11. Reportorial Requirement.  – The DOTr shall submit an annual 
report to Congress on the establishment and use of the Safe Pathways Network 
for purposes of policy formulation and determining funding requirements. The 
report shall include relevant data such as the number of users of active transport 
and electric personal mobility devices, and mapping of the Safe Pathways 
Network in the country. 
 
To this end, LGUs shall submit to the DOTr the relevant information 
needed to formulate the report. 
 
 Section 12. Appropriations. – The amount necessary for the 
implementation of this Act shall be included in the annual General Appropriations 


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Act. The LGUs concerned may provide the necessary funds for the purpose, in 
their respective annual budgets. 
 
 Section 13. Implementing Rules and Regulations. – Within thirty (30) 
days from the effectivity of this Act, the DOTr shall, in coordination with the 
DPWH, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other 
appropriate agencies, promulgate the rules and regulations for the effective 
implementation of this Act.  
 
 Section 14. Separability Clause. – Should any provision of this Act be 
declared unconstitutional or invalid, the remaining provisions shall continue to 
be in full force and effect.  
 
 Section 15. Repealing Clause. – All other laws, presidential decrees, 
executive orders, proclamations, rules and regulations, and issuances, or parts 
thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, 
amended, or modified accordingly. 
 
 Section 16.  Effectivity.  – This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. 
 
 Approved,