Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, together with Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, joined the celebration of World Bicycle Day on Saturday, June 10, which aims to promote biking as an alternative and healthier means of transportation.
Photo courtesy of Keith Bacongcoe | MB
"Biking is a simple yet effective form of exercise and helps in reducing the levels of pollution in the country," said Herbosa.
The event, also dubbed "The Pedal for a Sustainable Future - A World Bicycle Day Celebration," also targets increasing awareness of the benefits of cycling for the environment, health, and well-being.
World Bicycle Day was attended by almost 700 participants who ran a distance of 14 kilometers.
Moreover, DOH's Active Transport Playbook was also launched during the event.
"The primary objective of the Active Transport initiative is to advance active modes of transportation, such as cycling and walking, as effective means to mitigate the prevalence of non-communicable diseases," the health department said.
DOH allocated P1,150,000 worth of funds for the promotion of the program, which includes events and activities that will encourage the public to adopt active transport practices in their everyday lives.