PROCLAMATION NO. 409, November 28, 2023

DECLARING THE LAST WORKING DAY OF NOVEMBER OF EVERY YEAR AS THE "NATIONAL BIKE-TO-WORK DAY"

WHEREAS, Section 16, Article II of the Constitution declares it a policy of the State to protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature;

WHEREAS, under Republic Act (RA) No. 8749, or the "Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999," the State shall ensure a balance between development and environmental protection and maintain a quality of air that protects human health and welfare;

WHEREAS, RA No. 8749 encourages non-motorized transportation;

WHEREAS, the Department of Health (DOH) constituted the Inter-Agency Technical Working Group on Active Transport (IATWG-AGT) to oversee and implement strategies for the promotion of Active Transport, such as cycling, throughout the country;

WHEREAS, the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 underscores the need to develop active transport networks and accord highest priority to pedestrians and cyclists in the hierarchy of road users;

WHEREAS, the post-pandemic "New Normal" requires the adoption of measures to enable safe, independent, physically-distanced travel, especially for essential workers, so that the country is better prepared in the event of another health emergency; and

WHEREAS, there is a need to raise public awareness on the viability of cycling as a mainstream mode of transportation in order to further improve cycling infrastructure in the country;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FERDINAND R. MARCOS, JR., President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and existing laws, do hereby declare the last working day of November of every year as the "National Bike-to-Work Day."

For this purpose, the IATWG-AT, in coordination with relevant non-government organizations and civil society groups, shall lead, coordinate, and supervise the observance of the National Bike-to-Work Day and identify the programs, projects, and activities for the yearly celebration thereof.

All other national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, government financial institutions, and state universities and colleges, are directed, and local government units and the private sector are encouraged, to provide the necessary assistance and support to the DOH and the IATWG-AT for the effective implementation of the Proclamation.

IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

DONE in the City of Manila, this 28th day of November, in the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Twenty-Three.

(SGD.) FERDINAND R. MARCOS, JR.

By the President:

(SGD.) LUCAS P. BERSAMIN

Executive Secretary