Pasig city: Civil society groups and international partners, together with the Quezon City and Pasig City governments, reaffirmed a growing national movement calling for an active, inclusive, and climate-resilient mobility.
According to Philippines News Agency, at the culminating event of the Sparking Mobility Actions for Climate-Friendly Cities (SPARK) Project in Pasig City, the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) noted how the initiative inspired local government units, aside from Quezon City and Pasig, which served as its pilot areas, to promote safe mobility. Victorino Aquitania, Regional Director of ICLEI Southeast Asia, highlighted the project's transformative goal to make walking and cycling practical, safe, and appealing.
Aquitania remarked on the inspiring changes observed, with cities reimagining streets as shared spaces for people rather than vehicles. Local governments took steps to enhance pedestrian infrastructure, pilot cycling lanes, improve road safety, and integrate active mobility into development plans. He emphasized active mobility as a climate solution, health intervention, social equalizer, and environmental improvement tool.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) underscored active mobility's central role in the country's climate agenda. Alvin Pajo, Lead for Planning at the Active Transport Project Office of the DOTr, highlighted its potential to reduce emissions, fossil fuel dependence, and improve air quality. Pajo mentioned the DOTr's focus on protected bike lanes, safer walkways, and people-centered planning.
Pasig City and Quezon City, as SPARK pilot areas, showcased community-driven mobility innovations. Karen Crisostomo from Pasig City's City Transportation Development and Management Office emphasized embedding active mobility education in schools. Quezon City Assistant City Administrator for Operations, Alberto Kimpo, shared results from the Maginhawa Street Tactical Urbanism pilot, noting challenges faced due to resistance and overlapping government mandates.
Kimpo stressed the importance of meaningful conversations and collaboration between national and local governments. He shared insights from community feedback, which guide responsive and inclusive interventions. QC Mayor Joy Belmonte aims to build 350 kilometers of bike lanes by 2028.
The advocacy groups emphasized continued collaboration and innovation to ensure mobility is a right, encouraging collective efforts to create safe, affordable, sustainable, and accessible cities for all.
