The unprecedented spread of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country has resulted in social distancing, limited interaction and crippled transportation being the new normal. With public transportation closed, people rich or poor look at bicycles as their new means of transport. We examine the role of the cycling industry as the "NEW NORMAL" demands strict social distancing.
Before cycling can be embraced as the primary mode of transportation, issues are present that need to be addressed by the government, private institutions, and society. The lack of bicycle lanes means that cyclists will have to share the road with cars, trucks, and motorcycles. This makes the rider exposed to a higher risk of accidents.
Cycling in the current system present a lot of dangers and obstacles that need to be addressed.
There needs to be more bike lanes on the road. Another is the lack of protection of cyclists under the law. With little to no laws protecting cyclists, they are forced to deal with the problems themselves should accidents on the road happen. This results in cycling being branded as dangerous than what it is; a SAFE, HEALTHY, and ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY mode of transportation.
Cycling in the new normal will have a big impact not only for the individual but also to their community. It limits unnecessary interaction you get from mass transportation, you get to your destination faster, and costs far less than having to use public transportation or private vehicles. Society benefits in a place where there is less pollution, roads are safer and people’s lifestyles improve. Communities will be happier, healthier, and safer.
Perhaps this is the time when people in government and society take a another look at what cycling can bring towards the new normal. Perhaps this is the time we take cycling seriously.
IT’S TIME TO BRING BACK THE BEAUTY OF CYCLING IN THE PHILIPPINES!
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