SMC to partner with LGUS to build recycled plastics bike lanes
ALMOST a year after it first built and started testing the country’s first asphalt road made with post-consumer plastic waste, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is eyeing the next phase of its plan to widen the application of the environment-friendly material — by building bicycle lanes made of recycled plastics in partner cities and provinces. SMC […].....»»
DoTr shifts priority focus on public transport initiatives
Responding to the President’s call to deliver efficient services to Filipinos, the Department of Transportation has committed to shift its focus into developing a public transit-friendly landscape, instead of maintaining the current car-centric setup that privileges the private automobile as a better transportation mode. “The transportation department’s initiatives have shifted focus on public transport, to maximize usage of the country’s limited highways,” the DoTr said on Monday. “The goal is for private vehicle owners to abandon their cars in favor of trains, buses, taxis, bicycles, and even motorcycle taxis,” it added. Despite facing numerous headwinds, the DoTr still described the EDSA Busway implementation as successful. The new system, which is envisioned to be replicated in more populated areas in the country, reduces travel time between Monumento and PITX to more or less an hour. To recall, improving the EDSA busway system was one of the priorities of the DoTr. It plans to introduce new stations and upgrade existing facilities to be universally accessible, gender-responsive, and climate resilient — all aligned with international standards. Active transport nationwide Simultaneously, the DoTr said it will complete its planned 2,400-kilometer bike lane expansion by 2028 to promote active and sustainable transportation. “As an advocate of the environment-friendly transport system, we are pushing for the Active Transport Program where 564 kilometers of bike lanes were built throughout the country with an additional 470 kilometers to be constructed this year,” it added. The DoTr has set out its plans to upgrade and expand existing bike lane and pedestrian walkway networks, and provide better Public Utility Vehicle stops and End-of-Trip cycling facilities. For this year alone, the DoTr will mobilize P932.82 million to build additional 470 kilometers of protected bike lanes across nine regions in the country this year. Airport overhaul underway To boost the country’s tourism industry, the DoTr aims to improve the operations and facilities of our international and even regional airports through the implementation of Public-Private Partnerships to speed up aviation projects. Just last week, Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said the DoTr will publish the Terms of Reference for the solicited bidding to rehabilitate the Ninoy Aquino International Airport by next month so that contract will be awarded as early as December. The National Economic and Development Authority or NEDA, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., approved the solicited bid to privatize the operations of NAIA. NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the P170.6-billion project will help address the long-standing issues at the country’s main air hub such as congestion and limited aircraft movements that usually cause inconvenience to passengers. “We also have opened to the public the new passenger terminal of Clark International Airport. And to complement the operations in our main gateway, new airport projects in Bulacan and Sangley are being developed,” the DoTr noted. Likewise, the DoTr added that the relaxation of travel restrictions and continued support to recovery initiatives of airlines and other aviation stakeholders have resulted in passenger volume being around 3.2x compared to 2021 figures. Full-year 2022 domestic and international passenger volumes hit 32.3 million vs 7.7 million in 2021. Powering through delays In the railways sector, despite the push backs, the DoTr said it remains optimistic to deliver its promises. “Railways effectively address traffic congestion while providing increased passenger and freight capacity. The DoTr is accelerating the development, upgrade, and construction of big-ticket rail projects to be able to move more people and goods,” the DoTr said. “The DoTr has made substantial headway on several ongoing rail projects with various contracts signed and construction and financing milestones for big-ticket projects North-South Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway Project, LRT-1 Cavite Extension, Common Station, MRT-3 Rehabilitation and Maintenance, MRT-4 and other ongoing railway projects,” it added. Despite the slow progress, the Metro Manila Subway Project, which has been at the table for years, is one of the flagship projects the DoTr wants to prioritize. According to Bautista, fulfilling the rail project on time also means fulfilling his promise of providing “a global-standard transport system” to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. With 17 stations and a depot of 30.34 hectares, the civil works for the Metro Manila Subway Project’s two major segments will generate more than 6,000 direct and indirect jobs. Funded by the Japanese government, the subway is a 33-kilometer rail line stretching from Valenzuela City to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay City. It will reduce travel time between Quezon City and NAIA from one hour and 10 minutes to just 45 minutes. The post DoTr shifts priority focus on public transport initiatives appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P933M to fund additional 470 kms of bike lanes
The Department of Transportation will spend P932.82 million to build additional 470 kilometers of protected bicycle lanes across nine regions in the country this year. The agency said Tuesday the additional bike lanes will be built in Metro Manila and Regions I, III, IVA, V, VI, VII, VIII and XI. Transportation Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure James Andres Melad said the bike lanes will also include pedestrian infrastructure to ensure the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. “An additional 470 kilometers of protected bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure will be built to stay true to our commitment of making active transport a viable transportation and mobility option,” Melad said. “The establishment of the protected bike lanes will contribute to the change in perspective and hopefully result in a change in the way we view and use public roads,” he added. The transport infrastructure in San Fernando, Pampanga covers 37.5 kilometers of protected bike lanes separated from the main road and separated bike lanes with bollards. Both bike lanes are seen to increase accessibility to key establishments and institutions. At least 332,000 residents and active transport users are expected to benefit from the project. The DoTr’s active transport campaign seeks to establish 2,400 kilometers of bike lanes to provide safe infrastructure for cyclists, commuters and other road users. The transport agency has lined up road projects for 2023, including the expansion of active transport infrastructure in nine regions, the Intramuros Active Transport Infrastructure Expansion and the Quezon City Bike Bridge. The post P933M to fund additional 470 kms of bike lanes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SEC. BAUTISTA: PCG, PCGA INTEGRAL IN COMPLETING TRANSPORT PROJECTS
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and its auxiliary arm play an integral role in completing transport projects and improving the country’s transportation system, according to Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista. Secretary Bautista stressed the strong collaboration between the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary will not only “build a progressive maritime nation” but also build a cohesive transportation system. “We have a mandate to provide significant contributions beyond just coastal communities,” Secretary Jaime Bautista said during the 38th Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary National Convention in Nasugbu, Batangas. The transport chief cited transportation projects such as the LRT-1 Cavite Extension, Metro Manila Subway, the privatization of NAIA and other regional airports, MRT-7, EDSA Greenways projects, bike lanes, and Bus Rapid Transits in Cebu and Davao, among others, where the PCG and PCGA can extend their assistance. “With the support of the agencies under the DOTr, including the Philippine Coast Guard and with the help of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, we are confident this goal is achievable,” Secretary Bautista said. Once these projects are completed, Filipinos are guaranteed efficient mobility and increased economic activity in various areas, thereby leading to inclusive growth, according to Secretary Bautista. “Passengers can travel from point A to point B efficiently and comfortably. The mandate is to make public transport comfortable, accessible, safe, sustainable and affordable,” Secretary Bautista explained. Secretary Bautista explained that the PCGA’s volunteerism role of taking the cudgels from the PCG not only benefits local and coastal communities, but the entire country as well. “This is the essence of the spirit of volunteerism that unites us at the PCGA,” he said. The post SEC. BAUTISTA: PCG, PCGA INTEGRAL IN COMPLETING TRANSPORT PROJECTS appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM pushes for eco-mobility, celebrates World Bike Day nationwide
The Philippines has made greater strides toward eco-mobility in the past two years, with the growth of bike ownership allowing more Pinoys to go out and use a bike. This has prompted SM Supermalls to build more bike-friendly spaces. In celebration of World Bike Day, SM Supermalls, together with its Corporate Social Responsibility arm SM Cares, is inviting cyclists of all ages to join the 2023 Bike Fest from 3 to 30 June. On 3 June, to celebrate World Bike Day at SM Mall of Asia, SM City Fairview, SM City Marikina, SM City Clark, SM City Sta. Rosa, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM Lanang Premier, everyone is invited to join the community fun bike ride around the mall complex as part of SM Supermalls' advocacy of creating bike-friendly communities across the country. A Kiddie Bike Clinic will also take place at SM Mall of Asia, SM City Fairview and SM City Marikina. Kids aged 8 to 12 can learn and practice bike handling skills in a fun, safe and encouraging atmosphere, as well as learn about the value of bicycle safety. From 20 to 30 June, bike aficionados are in for a treat as various promos and deals are available online via the SM Deals and SM Malls Online apps, and on-ground in select malls. Tons of cool cycling gear, accessories, and merchandise will be up for grabs during this 10-day bicycle festival. On 27 June, bikers also get free weekend treats. As advocates of a cleaner and sustainable environment, SM also offers its Green Finds. Through the Green Finds badge, customers can easily find eco-friendly and sustainable products. Alongside SM retail affiliate brands, SM Green Finds offer products made from natural ingredients that are resourcefully made, promote local artisans and support community livelihood. Check out our pop-up shops at the SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Makati, SM City Marikina, SM City Bacolod, SM City Legazpi and SM Lanang. SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs for Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its programs on the environment. Visit www.smsupermalls.com and www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or check out @smsupermalls and @officialsmcares on social media. The post SM pushes for eco-mobility, celebrates World Bike Day nationwide appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
10 Metro Manila officials in study tour of bike-friendly Netherlands
Filipino bicycle community, rejoice: Metro Manila mayors are taking you seriously. At least enough to fly to the Netherlands to study how the nation became the most bicycle-friendly country. Top city officials represented the Metro Manila Development Authority in a study tour of the European nation that has integrated the use of bicycles into its daily life as well as in its culture. Since the 1920s, the Netherlands developed the bicycle culture and the bike has become “the patriotic means of transportation.” There, traffic rules take cyclists into consideration that they don’t have to wear helmets. Infrastructure is also planned out with bicycles in mind. The Metro Manila city officials also sought to learn things about water management, flood control, inclusive and sustainable mobility, and circular economy. The official delegation includes Mayor Joy Belmonte of Quezon City, Mayor Ruffy Biazon of Muntinlupa, and other officials from San Juan, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Pasay City, Valenzuela, Mandaluyong, and Pateros The officials visited two modern bicycle parking facilities built under canals and rivers in Amsterdam. One is the Stationsplein Underwater Bike Parking Facility which opened on 26 January. It is the largest bicycle parking facility in the city. It can store almost 7,000 bicycles. Taking four years to build at a cost of 65 million euros or approximately P3.67 billion, the bike garage was constructed under the river in front of the Amsterdam Central Train Station. The city officials also visited another underwater parking that can accommodate 4,000 bikes along IJ Boulevard in Amsterdam. Biazon cited the design which allows easy parking and promotes cycling as “last-mile transportation” for train commuters. Belmonte said there are a lot of pointers she can apply for Quezon City which has the largest bicycle road network in the country with 93 kilometers of bike lanes. Quezon City has also installed bike ramps on 40 footbridges and underpasses, milestones already for the local bike community but still a long way to go compared to that of the Netherlands. Based on Dutch Cycling Embassy data, roughly 63 percent of Amsterdam citizens ride a bike daily on 767 km of cycle paths and bicycle lanes throughout the city. The Netherlands has more bicycles than people, with over 22 million bicycles for its 18 million residents. Bicycles saw a massive popularity rise during the pandemic, causing improvements in the infrastructure, especially along Edsa, Macapagal Ave., C5 and Ayala Ave. In 2021, the Department of Transportation and the Department of Public Works and Highways completed 313.12 kilometers of bike lanes passing through 12 cities in Metro Manila. In total, the country now has 497 km of bike lane network that can handle 1,250 cyclists per hour per meter of bike lane. According to the DPWH, there is a plan to build 1,778 km more bike lane projects across the entire country. The post 10 Metro Manila officials in study tour of bike-friendly Netherlands appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Five ways Metro Manila can be made a better city
Metro Manila is forecast to become a global power city, but that development is challenged by rapid urbanization. The UN Habitat sees climate change, inequality, poverty and other social problems arising from poorly managed cities. Is there a way out of Metro Manila’s problems? Architect and urban designer Chintan Raveshia and urban planner and sustainability consultant Tony Chan of Singapore-based Arup stress that urban development should also consider people’s aspirations, their changing needs and expectations, and the collective identity of the residents. Raveshia says stakeholders should first ask themselves the most fundamental question: “What’s the identity of the city and how do we make its residents proud?” As an example, “Singapore, a city high on everyone’s liveability list, is also working with citizens and grassroots organizations to inculcate a sense of ‘lovability’ for the city. This helps to strengthen societal bonds, increase equity, improve community safety, and exude pride and a feeling of ownership of the city among the residents.” Chan believes that successful sustainable urban development goes hand in hand with the capability to enhance people’s quality of life. “We must develop and harness models of development that have low-carbon targets, that are also just, secure and enhances the quality of life for all residents.” If Singapore reclaims lands for more affordable housing and Melbourne builds accessible green spaces to promote social interaction, for instance, what plans would likewise best fit Metro Manila’s sustainable and livable future while maintaining its identity? Here are five ways the country’s main political and economic hub can be made much better for its residents. Greater accessibility for all. While Metro Manila is the Philippines’ major economic driver, accounting for 32 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, it’s often challenged in sustaining accessible living conditions for residents across all social classes. The UK-based The Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Metro Manila 105th out of 139 cities in the Global Liveability Index 2022. The increasing population density in Metro Manila has resulted in traffic gridlock, scarce open spaces, high carbon footprint, unaffordable housing and unequal income opportunities. Urban planners and developers suggest mixed-use planning in the metropolis and coastal developments where residents across all walks of life are can live healthy, affordable and sustainable lifestyles, with residential, commercial and office spaces integrated within a single development. Green open spaces. Despite land scarcity, Singapore manages to be one of the greenest cities in the world with over 400 parks, more than 3,300 hectares of nature reserve and over 300 kilometers of park connector network. Studies shows that Metro Manila has only 5 square meters of green space available per person, a number well below the 9 square meters set by the World Health Organization.COVID-19 had the entire world reassess their health conditions, lifestyle practices and environmental situations. The impact was even more drastic in Metro Manila due to population density, crowded spaces and insufficient parks and open areas. Aside from improving air quality and enhancing biodiversity, green spaces also moderate temperatures during the warm season. Enhanced human health and wellbeing. Cities with sufficient healthcare facilities, access to health coverage and infrastructure that enhance well-being and promote a healthy lifestyle produce prosperous societies. The way cities are planned, designed and executed has a crucial impact on how people live. While there is evident progress in Metro Manila’s health sector, rapid urbanization continues to pose risks in communities due to overcrowded neighborhoods, vehicular emissions, heavy traffic, pollution and flood-prone areas. Resilient communities. Resilience is the capacity of individuals, communities and systems to adapt, survive and grow in the face of stress and shocks, and even transform when conditions require it. The Philippines is among the top 10 countries in the world most affected by climate change in the past 20 years, according to the Global Climate Risk Index. Well-planned and executed urban designs have the power to build safe and resilient communities against that danger. Infrastructure like proper bike lanes and walkable streets ensure residents’ safety, accessibility and comfort, while science and technology-based solutions can build flexible structures, multi-use systems and technologies that can help residents adapt and prepare for changing conditions. [caption id="attachment_122966" align="aligncenter" width="908"] Melbourne is considered one of the most liveable cities in the planet.[/caption] Competitive city. In 2022, Singapore placed 3rd in the World Competitiveness Ranking. This small country in Asia even placed first in 2019 and 2020. Metro Manila is one of Asia’s premier regions. As the country’s engine growth driver, it can further step up by following global models like Singapore, Melbourne and Hong Kong, which created integrated cities and coastal developments that ushered in a vibrant economy and better urban lifestyles. A similar endeavor for Metro Manila can increase opportunities for jobs, education, tourism, infrastructure and the overall economy. When all stakeholders are listened to and addressed, communities are energized, especially when their participation is harnessed for well-designed and master-planned and -implemented developments. This assures more inclusive growth for residents, making the urban landscape an extension of their home. When a city embraces its history, celebrates its milestones, innovates and adopts for the future and, most importantly, nurtures its residents and responds to their aspirations, it is a city working toward competitiveness and unlocking future potential. The post Five ways Metro Manila can be made a better city appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DOTr wants more bike facilities in schools to encourage cycling
MANILA - The Department of Transportation (DOTr) wants more students and workers in the education sector to cycle to schools and has asked relevant government agencies to build bike racks, showers, and other related infrastructure on campus.In a media bulletin on Wednesday, DOTr Secretary Ja.....»»
Bike Maker to Build Manufacturing Plant in PH
Bicycle brand TRINX Bike Bicycle Sport Technology Corp. (TBSTC), a Filipino and Chinese joint venture, will be establishing a bicycle manufacturing plant in Sta. Maria, Bulacan. TBSTC’s operations is to start in September in their P356 million bike manufacturing plant. The Board of Investments (BOI) has approved the plant’s construction under the export activities category […].....»»
SMC to partner with LGUS to build recycled plastics bike lanes
ALMOST a year after it first built and started testing the country’s first asphalt road made with post-consumer plastic waste, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) is eyeing the next phase of its plan to widen the application of the environment-friendly material — by building bicycle lanes made of recycled plastics in partner cities and provinces. SMC […].....»»
LGUs urged: Build bike lanes, walking paths
The Department of the Interior and Local Government yesterday urged local government units to construct protected biking lanes and walking paths to encourage the public to consider these active means of transport amid the coronavirus disease 2019 or COVID-19 pandemic......»»
Johnson wants Britons to cycle way out of lockdown
The British government promised Monday to build thousands of miles of new bike lanes to get people moving and healthy after months of coronavirus lockdown......»»
Lalamove empowers aspiring women entrepreneurs to start their small businesses in PangNegosyo program
Lalamove, a leading on-demand delivery platform, has launched the Panalong PangNegosyo program for its thousands of women partner drivers to give out a business-starter package to three lady riders or drivers......»»
Mr. Nice Guy
There is a reason why the public and most people like Ralph Recto as a person, as the partner of Ate Vi, as a politician and as a government official......»»
Filinvest Invests P16B in Ciudad BTO Project
The development of Ciudad will finally be realized after the Province of Cebu turned over Friday a parcel of the property to homegrown developer Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) through a build-transfer-operate (BTO) engagement. Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and Tristan Las Marias, FLI president and CEO, formally kicked off the project in simple ceremonies onsite on […].....»»
Marcos admin eyes building 20 new dams by 2028
To meet the country’s growing demand for water and power, the government is eyeing to build 20 medium and three to five large dams by 2028, the end of President Marcos’ term, according to National Irrigation Administration head Eduardo Guillen......»»
Dusit Thani, Sheraton to build hotels in Cagayan de Oro
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 24 March) — Two international hotel chains — Sheraton and Dusit Thani – are set to build hotels in this city, the third in Mindanao for Dusit Thani and the first in Mindanao for Sheraton. Dusit Thani operates two in the Davao region – Dusit Thani Residence Davao in Davao […].....»»
PM s Prizes for Space to showcase sector s talent
The Government is recognising the innovative and rising talent in New Zealand's growing space sector, with the Prime Minister and Space Minister Judith Collins announcing the new Prime Minister's Prizes for Space today."New Zealand has a growing reputation as a high-value partner for space missions and research. I am excited to announce these prizes which will help foster talent, which plays an important role in.....»»
Dating child star na si Krystal Reyes engaged na sa non-showbiz BF
ENGAGED na ang former child star na si Krystal Reyes sa kanyang non-showbiz boyfriend na si Lawrence dela Cruz. Ibinandera ni Krystal sa kanyang Instagram account kahapon, March 25, ang ginawang marriage proposal sa kanya ng partner. Makikita sa photo na ipinost ng dating child actress sa IG ang kanyang fiancé na nakaluhod sa harapan.....»»
Excise tax on single-use plastics to yield P34 billion
The move to slap excise taxes on single-use plastics is seen generating P34 billion for the government and curbing the increasing mismanagement that contributes to overall pollution......»»
DFNN, Spanish partner to revolutionize Philippines tech landscape
Listed DFNN Inc. and Spain’s CIC Consulting Informático are looking to revolutionize the country’s technology landscape......»»