SEPT 15, 2015

NR # 3958

Sustainable transportation system for the protection

of environment and riding public pushed
A lawmaker has filed a bill seeking to promote sustainable system and alternative
modes of transportation system and other mobility options to improve air quality, increase
efficiency, reduce congestion and contribute to positive health impacts in the society.
Rep. Cesar V. Sarmiento (Lone District, Catanduanes) said with House Bill 6059,
public commuters and the environment dont have to fall victims to the negative
consequences of economic progress such as carbon emissions, shortages in energy
resources and congestion.
Sarmiento said as modernization takes place in the Philippines, the countrys
environment slowly falls victim to the wrath of the negative consequences of economic
progress such as carbon emissions, shortages in energy resources and congestion.
The congestion of roads, high demands for finite fuel resources, vehicle emissions
among many others are also slowly dehumanizing the Filipino commuter, according to
Sarmiento.
The problems in our transportation today are alienating the public commuter since
he/she, rather than spending time with the family, has to spend more time negotiating
traffic, Sarmiento said.
Under the bill, the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), in
coordination with the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), and other key
stakeholders as may be deemed necessary, shall come up with a Sustainable Transport
Action Plan.
Sarmiento said the proposed plan aims to provide a roadmap for national and local
transportation systems to be adhered to at all levels throughout the country.
The bill provides that the Sustainable Transport Action Plan shall include strategies
relating to the prioritization of non-motorized transport, seamless and inclusive public
transportation system, and green infrastructure and facilities parking, public transport,
cycling, walking and transport infrastructure, travel demand management and will set out
the actions required to achieve the mode shift target over a certain period of time as
identified by DOTC and NEDA.
The measures calls for Local Government Units (LGUs) to submit an integrated
land use and transportation plan formulated in consonance with the Sustainable Transport
Action Plan.

Likewise, it requires the DOTC to achieve a smoke-free, accident-free and effective

road safety management system.
The proposal mandates the Department of Energy (DOE), in coordination with the
DOTC and the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR), to
formulate strategies towards vehicle modernization and use of alternative energy and
cleaner fuels.
It tasks the DOTC to develop policies and guidelines that shall promote and provide
non-motorized transportation to meet scientifically calculated public transportation
demand.
The bill provides that adequate sidewalk areas must be maintained on all roads as
walkways to allow safe pedestrian passage and for the safe and convenient use of
wheelchairs, strollers and similar instruments.
Provision on bike lanes, bicycle parking spaces and bike racks are also included in
the Sarmiento proposal.
The measure provides for the commissioning of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
System by the DOTC, establishment of a water ferry system as well as on the
rationalization of issuance of franchises for PUVs and Travel demand management
Programs.
Sarmiento said to advance towards the next era of progress, the Philippines should
not disregard the protection of the environment and the preservation of the public
commuter. (30) mvip