File photo from: QCGovt
THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is set to recognize local government units (LGUs) leading the way in making cycling, walking, and other forms of active transport safer and more accessible through the National Bike Day Awards and Recognition (NBDAR).
Launched by the Interagency Technical Working Group for Active Transport (IATWG-AT), the NBDAR recognizes innovative local policies, practices, and infrastructure that promote active transportation and provide pedestrians and cyclists with safer and more viable mobility options.
The IATWG-AT is composed of the DILG, Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Through DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-043, the Department urged provincial governors and city and municipal mayors to participate in the NBDAR and showcase their efforts to build more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable transport systems in their communities.
The initiative supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to boost the viability of cycling as a mode of transportation and promote transport systems that provide Filipinos with more accessible mobility options.
Held in celebration of the annual National Bike Day, the NBDAR has three award categories: Main Category Awards, Outstanding Active Transport Initiative Awards, and Active Transport Champion.
The top three winners, clustered according to LGU classification, will receive plaques of recognition and be declared Gold, Silver, and Bronze awardees, respectively.
Among the key criteria are the presence of a designated unit and incentive mechanisms to promote active transportation; an established bike lane network; initiatives that address gaps in active transport facilities; and measures that improve access to key destinations, essential services, and activity centers.
Special awards will likewise be given to LGUs that demonstrate exemplary performance, best practices, and innovative interventions in select aspects of program implementation.
The DILG encouraged all LGUs to accomplish and submit the prescribed evaluation tools for their chosen category, together with the required means of verification and supporting documents, from the second week of August until the third week of October 2026.
LGUs must obtain a minimum passing score of 60 percent to qualify as winners in their respective categories, while the Active Transport Champion award is open to all LGUs.
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