Republic of the Philippines <” RECEIVED
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES EAT BLUN 0 2 2020"
Quezon City : i

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BY: font RY,
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EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No. _ 6815

Introduced by Representative EDWARD VERA PEREZ MACEDA

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The lessons brought about by our experiences amid the COVID-19 health crisis has led
our Government to craft and compose a number of commendable policies and
legislations that could definitely guide our country towards full recovery and more
resilient future. The New Normal Bill, the PESA Bill and the Balik-Probinsya Program are
among the many praiseworthy proposals designed as responses to the various problems
we faced during this pandemic. To further these aspirations, it is also necessary to address
the unceasing issue on transportation now that the country is starting its transition from
strict community rules to slightly flexible regulations.

Embracing new changes is never easy but with the implementation of the general
community quarantine (GCQ) in Metro Manila, most of our countrymen have been left
with no other choice but to welcome the "new normal" despite the presence of danger
and uncertainties. Particularly, we witnessed how our dedicated workers braved our
major roads through riding bicycles - an alternative to public transport that may pose
numerous risks. Accordingly, these perils may be reduced or even avoided by having
permanent bike lanes to ensure the safety of our riding citizens.

According to studies, cycling promotes significant benefits to the environment, health
and economy. World Resource Institute (WRI) found that investing in infrastructure to
support biking — from protected lanes, to mass parking facilities to bikeshare programs
— is exactly the type of win-win investment that will help economies recover while
curbing climate change, reducing air pollution and protecting human health. By
providing special and safe lanes for bicycles, we can effectively reduce the use of vehicles
that burns fossil fuels thereby effectively reducing air and noise pollution. Also according
to World Health Organization (WHO), cycling is a healthier option of transportation as
regular cyclists enjoy the benefits of consistent exercise and in effect lower the chances of
getting cancer, diabetes, stroke and heart disease. And as social distancing eases and
people can soon return to patronizing local shops, cafes and restaurants in-person, bicycle
use can also provide proven stimulus to economic activity on main streets and


commercial areas. Thus, by promoting cycling through the construction of safe bicycle
pathways, the Government can methodically address environmental, health and
economic issues all at once.

Also, contrary to the fear of many that bicycling is inherently dangerous on its own, a
research by the University of Colorado found otherwise. According to the study, building
safe facilities for cyclists turned out to be one of the biggest factors in road safety as it acts
as "calming" mechanisms on traffic, slowing cars and reducing fatalities. The effect is
similar to the effect of grid blocks found in cities with higher intersection density.

In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.

Edward T
EDWARD VERA PEREZ MACEDA
Representative

4% District, City of Manila


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No.__ 6915

Introduced by Representative EDWARD VERA PEREZ MACEDA

AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A NETWORK OF POP-UP BICYCLE LANES AND EMERGENCY
PATHWAYS FOR USE DURING THE DURATION OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Short title. - This Act shall be known as the “SAFE PATHWAYS ACT”.

SEC. 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, and to protect and promote the right to health
of the people and instill health consciousness among them.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Action Plan Against COVID-19
provides that the State shall mitigate the consequences and impact of the COVID-19
pandemic to the social, economic, and personal security of the Filipino people.!

The State recognizes that the current transportation system does not address the need for
physical distancing.

The State likewise acknowledges the need for infrastructure and a change in mindset to.
encourage and accommodate alternative modes of transportation such as walking,
bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles, and to provide safe and convenient pathways
for pedestrians and non-motorized travel. It also recognizes the urgency of this need
during the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure physical distancing and given the limited
forms of transportation available to frontliners and essential workers for so long as there
is reduced mobility.

* Section A (4), Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF)
Resolution No. 15, 24 March 2020.


Prioritizing walking, biking and the use of non-motorized vehicles will result in reduced
carbon emissions, less use of energy and resources, and provide multiple health benefits
and increase 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).

For purposes of this Act, “Non-Motorized Vehicles” includes all forms of travel that do
not rely on an engine or motor for movement. This includes, but is not limited to, walking,
bicycles, and small-wheeled non-motorized transport (skates, skateboards, push scooters
and hand carts).

SEC 3. SAFE PATHWAYS NETWORK. - Immediately upon the effectivity of this Act,
the Department of Transportation (DOTr) with the Department of Public Works and
Highways (DPWH), and in coordination with Local Government Units (LGUs), shall
identify and create a network of pop-up bicycle lanes that may be used during the
duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pop-up bicycle lanes are strictly for bicycles
and other non-motorized vehicles only, and shall connect users to essential destinations
such as medical facilities, public and private facilities frequented by people, school, when
they do open, and other similar places that may be identified. The 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 pop-up bicycle lanes must have the necessary space to accommodate the expected
increase of users and the need for physical distancing at least one (1) meter apart.

To complement the network of pop-up bicycle lanes, LGUs shall create a designated
network of people-oriented emergency pathways along local roads that will provide
pedestrians and bicycle and non-motorized vehicle users safe, convenient access to
frequented destinations by restricting motorized vehicle passage in these pathways
during peak hours. The emergency pathways shall be clearly marked with signage
containing restrictions.

‘The DOTr and DPWH shall identify priority areas for implementation.

SEC. 4. NON-MOTORIZED VEHICLE PARKING SPACES. - All public places,
government offices, schools, places of work and major commercial establishments,
including malls, banks, hospitals, and the like, shall provide adequate parking spaces for
bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles as far as practicable.

SEC. 5. ROLE OF THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS. - Both the public and
private sectors shall promote walking and using bicycles and other non-motorized
vehicles as an alternative means of travel. They shall develop the necessary
infrastructure, facilities and programs for its implementation, including showers and
changing areas and shall continue following physical distancing measures during travel.


‘SEC. 6. PERMANENT ADOPTION OF SAFE PATHWAYS NETWORK. - The DOTr
and DPWH, in coordination with the appropriate agencies, shall prepare to permanently
adopt the established bicycle lanes and emergency pathways, as may be appropriate,
once COVID-19 is no longer a threat as declared by the proper authorities. Pursuant to
this, non-motorized parking spaces and other infrastructure shall also be made
permanent as may be appropriate and practicable.

SEC. 7. IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS. - Within thirty (30) days from
the effectivity of this Act, the DOTr shall promulgate and issue the necessary guidelines
for the effective implementation of this Act. The implementing rules and regulations
issued pursuant to this Section shall take effect thirty (30) days after its publication in two
(2) national newspapers of general circulation.

SEC. 8. APPROPRIATIONS. - The funds necessary for the initial implementation of this
Act shall be charged against the appropriations of the DOTr, DPWH, and LGUs as
needed. Thereafter, funding shall be included in the budget of the DOTr and DPWH
under the annual General Appropriations Act.

SEC. 9. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE. - If any provision of this Act is declared
unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the validity of the other provisions shall not be
affected thereby.

SEC. 10. REPEALING CLAUSE. - Alll other laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations,
other issuances, or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby
repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 11. EFFECTIVITY. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication
in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,