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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOH promotes public health, road safety on Nat'l Bike to Work Day

DOH promotes public health, road safety on Nat'l Bike to Work Day

Published Nov 29, 2023 11:56 am

The Department of Health (DOH) led the celebration of National Bike to Work Day on Wednesday, Nov. 29, emphasizing the importance of physical activity and road safety.

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Mark Balmores/Manila Bulletin

DOH said the initiative was created to recognize those who actively commuted to and from work.

It highlighted that the event was in line with the Health Promotion Framework Strategy (HPFS) 2021-2030, which prioritizes the well-being of road users, particularly the most vulnerable, and advocates for daily physical activity for the long-term health of Filipinos.

"Heart disease, stroke, cancer—those were our top causes of death, and we encouraged people to become active. Cycling is one of those activities that can significantly prolong your life, improve the functions of your heart, and enhance your cardiopulmonary and joint health," said DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa.

Under the Universal Healthcare Law (UHC), the DOH is mandated to implement population-based interventions to improve the health outcomes of the Filipino people.

The HPFS guided the department in promoting healthy behaviors through governance, healthy settings, and health literacy projects and programs.

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Mark Balmores/Manila Bulletin

Based on a recent survey by the Social Weather Stations, the DOH reported that in 2023, 36 percent of households in the Philippines incorporated bicycles into their activities, indicating a substantial presence of cycling within communities.

One in three households had at least one member who cycled, and 24 percent cycled for "essential activities," including commuting to and from work.

Moreover, Herbosa emphasized the need for “more” bike lanes by requesting support from the Department of Public Works and Highways.

“In local governments, private corporations, and government institutions, we are requesting them to provide changing rooms, lockers, and shower facilities because, as you know, it's hot here in the Philippines. ‘Pag nagbike to work ka ng ilang kilometro, papawisan ka talaga, so sana naman makapagchange sila para ‘pag nagtrabaho sila the whole day, hindi sila amoy pawis (When you bike to work for several kilometers, you'll really sweat, so we hope they can provide these facilities so that when they work the whole day, they won't smell of sweat),” he added.

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