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Move as One Coalition on World Bicycle Day condemns the removal of bike lane barriers along EDSA ‘without any public consultation or announcement’
MANILA, Philippines – Active transport advocates on World Bicycle Day, June 3, raised the alarm over the quiet removal of protective barriers of bike lanes along EDSA.
Cyclist and advocate Oscar Nava first noticed the missing barriers on Sunday, June 1, while biking along EDSA, particularly in the Guadalupe area. He told Rappler that the same had happened along other key stretches of EDSA, including Ortigas to Ayala Avenue in both directions.
The Move as One Coalition (MAOC), an active transport advocacy group, condemned the removal, calling it dangerous and irresponsible.
“On World Bicycle Day, June 3, we condemn the underhanded and criminally negligent actions of the agencies responsible for the removal, without any public consultation or announcement, of bike lane barriers on EDSA, leaving vulnerable road users unprotected and at high risk of collisions with faster-moving motor vehicles,” MAOC said on Tuesday.
“Common sense and basic respect for the many Filipinos not privileged to be in a motor vehicle would dictate that prior public warning, plus mitigating safety measures, would be put in place beforehand,” MAOC added.
They called the decision a major setback in efforts to promote sustainable transport.
“At a time when we should be prioritizing road safety and encouraging sustainable, active transportation options, the hasty decision to remove bike lane barriers is a step backward. This unilateral decision by government undermines the progress that has been made in creating safer, more inclusive streets for everyone, the group said.
“The hasty and wanton removal of bike lane barriers on EDSA speaks volumes about how our road authorities view the lives and safety of those who are not in private motor vehicles.” MAOC said.
The MMDA initially planned to convert the bike lanes into a shared lane for bicycles and motorcycles in response to the rehabilitation of the EDSA. The agency said it will remove the protective barriers separating the bike lanes from motor vehicle traffic.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., however, on Sunday, May 1, halted the EDSA rehabilitation to allow for a better and shorter repair plan.
Rappler asked the MMDA if the barriers would be restored but the agency said the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Transportation are “best to answer with regards to bike lanes.” Rappler has reached out to both agencies and is still awaiting their response.
This is not the first time the idea of shared bike-motorcycle lanes has surfaced. In 2023, MAOC strongly opposed the same proposal, citing increased safety risks for cyclists. – Rappler.com
