Philippines Pushes for Inclusive Mobility Framework at APEC Transportation Meeting

Lapu lapu City — The Philippines is pushing for an inclusive mobility framework that will encourage Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies to give priority to biking and walking as the primary modes of transportation.

According to Transportation Assistant Secretary Atty. Sherielysse R. Bonifacio, the proposal will be presented during the APEC Transportation Ministerial Meeting being held here.

If passed, relevant consultations will be made with stakeholders and then implemented in APEC member economies.

Inclusive mobility in the Philippine setting includes a pedestrian lane which will be safe and accessible to less privileged individuals, people with disabilities (PWDs), women, senior citizens, children with special requirements, among others.

At the same time, Bonifacio said the proposal aims to encourage non-motorized transport alternatives for pedestrians, like biking-friendly roads to traverse as they head to their places of work or going home.

“Instead of taking the taxi to go to work, you can just use the bike or walk,” she said.

Bonifacio said they are looking to initiate this project at the MRT Ortigas station to connect the malls to the central business district.

The inclusive mobility framework will be loosely based on those initiated in several European countries and the United States where a lot of people are already into cycling.

Bonifactio said the Philippine experience will give a better perspective on the Asian situation in terms of road and transportation mobility. (PNA) FPV/PND/EDS