San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is providing its workforce with bicycles as an alternative transport mode amidst continued travel restrictions nationwide.

The conglomerate's program subsidizes bicycles for employees at P2,000 to P3,000 per unit, payable in 12 months, with no interest.

A surge in demand for bicycles among employees prompted SMC to devise the scheme, according to president and chief operating Ramon S. Ang.

“While we continuously do mass RT-PCR testing of all 70,000 employees and extended workforce to ensure safety in our facilities and offices nationwide, we need to provide convenience and additional safety to them when they go to work,” he explained.

"We bought an initial 1,500 units for our facilities in different locations. As soon as we offered them, all were taken. We are now waiting for more units to make available to more employees in more areas,” Ang added.

The commuter bicycles, complete with basket, light, drum brakes are priced at P2,080 for employees.

A compact, hardtail mountain bike with front suspension, front and rear disc brakes, and gearing is also available for P3,000.

The company launched a special COVID-19 transportation loan for employees to expand their options for alternative modes of transportation.

“With more and more cities putting up bike lanes, and with even our major thoroughfares devoting space for cyclists, biking to work is now a more viable option for many Filipinos," Ang went on.

"It lessens your risk for exposure to COVID-19 because you are socially-distanced and outdoors. It promotes better cardio health, and you don’t need to pay for fares. Just make sure to observe all safety measures and remain alert and careful at all times.”