In a bid to ensure ecological integrity and a clean and healthy environment, President Duterte has declared the fourth Sunday of November of every year as National Bicycle Day.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea signed Proclamation No. 1052 on the celebration of National Bicycle Day on November 18.
Based on the proclamation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in coordination with relevant non-government organizations and civil society groups, is tasked to lead the observation and celebration.
All other government agencies and instrumentalities of the national government, including state universities and colleges, and local government units, are encouraged to participate and render support to ensure the effective implementation of the proclamation.
The private sector is likewise urged to participate in the activities related to the National Bicycle Day.
In declaring the Bike Day, President Duterte cited the obligation of the government to focus on pollution prevention rather than control.
"There is a need to highlight the importance of non-motorized transportation as a means of fostering sustainable development and promoting environmental health that is conducive to the physical health and well-being of Filipinos," the proclamation read.
Under the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999, the government is mandated to provide for a comprehensive management program for air pollution, such as the promotion of non-motorized transport, with emphasis on public transport, and travel demand measures.
The Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 likewise seeks to ensure ecological integrity and a clean and healthy environment by promoting eco-friendly technologies, systems, and practices.