Biking in Baguio: Guide to New Traffic System

Baguio City is integrating biking into its traffic system to promote sustainable transportation and a healthier lifestyle. With shared roads, first aid stations, and penalties for violators of the Biking Code, the city is prioritizing safe and responsible biking practices and building a greener, more livable city.

Baguio City, known as the City of Pines, is a popular tourist destination and a bustling urban center in the Northern Philippines. With its hilly terrain and narrow streets, traffic congestion has become a major problem in the city. To address this issue, the integration of biking into the Baguio traffic system has been proposed.

Biking is an eco-friendly and healthy alternative mode of transportation that can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and promote a more active lifestyle. With the proper infrastructure, policies, and public awareness, biking can be a viable and sustainable solution to the traffic problem in Baguio City.

Source: Baguio City Public Information Office

The “Bicycle Code”

The proposed creation of a Bicycle Code by the city council in Baguio City would establish rules and regulations for those who use bicycles to navigate through the city’s selected streets. This code would apply to employees, businessmen, traders, and students who utilize bicycles as a mode of transportation.

By setting guidelines and standards for cycling in the city, the Bicycle Code aims to ensure the safety of both cyclists and pedestrians, while promoting the use of bicycles as an alternative and eco-friendly mode of transportation. The implementation of such a code can help improve the overall traffic situation and promote a healthier lifestyle for the residents of Baguio City.

Source: Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Baguio

As part of the proposed Bicycle Code in Baguio City, bikers would be required to attend a mandatory safety seminar to ensure their safety on the road. This seminar would equip cyclists with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate through the city’s streets, while also promoting responsible and safe cycling practices.

Moreover, Councilor Levi Lloyd Orcales proposed that motorists should also undergo a complementary seminar to establish new road courtesy rules for bicycles sharing the streets. By establishing new road courtesy rules, the proposed seminar aims to promote mutual respect and understanding between cyclists and motorists, ultimately resulting in safer roads for all users.

Establishing ‘Shared lanes’

Shared roads in Baguio City refer to roads where cyclists and motor vehicles share the same traffic lane. These shared motorcycle and bike lanes are designated as safe and accessible routes for cyclists to travel to downtown Baguio while sharing the road with cars. In 2021, the city engineering office identified six such roads for this purpose.

However, these roads may need revisions to comply with updated street guidelines by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

As of now, Baguio City legislation states that only individuals aged 17 years old and above are allowed to ride bicycles on shared roads. The issue of allowing younger-aged school children to ride bicycles on these roads is still being considered by the local authorities.

Biker Safety

The proposed Bicycle Code mandates the establishment of “First Aid Stations” along bicycle routes. These stations are intended to provide immediate medical assistance in case of accidents or injuries that may occur while cycling. The exact location and number of these stations are still to be determined by the city’s engineering.

Source: Baguio City Public Information Office

Baguio City council Mylen Yaranon also filed a bill that requires bikers to use helmets and safety reflectors.

“As part of making the city a bike-friendly environment, it is vital that safety requirements must be imposed on bikers and electric scooter enthusiasts in order to protect their life and limb while on the road,” said councilor Yaranon.

Individuals who violate the Biking Code may be subject to a penalty of P150 to P500 and 240 hours of community service. The implementation of this penalty will be done at the barangay level. The specific offenses that may lead to these penalties are outlined in the ordinance and include, among others, riding a bicycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, failure to wear a helmet, and failure to follow traffic rules and regulations.

Factors Affecting Bikers and Non-Bikers in Baguio City

There are various factors that may affect bikers and non-bikers in Baguio City. Some of these factors include:

1. Infrastructure and Road Design: The quality of roads and infrastructure can significantly affect bikers’ safety and comfort. Well-designed bike lanes, shared roads, and bike parking facilities may encourage more people to take up cycling.
2. Traffic Congestion: Heavy traffic may discourage people from biking in Baguio due to safety concerns, while others may prefer cycling as an alternative to being stuck in traffic.
3. Weather: Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or strong winds, may discourage people from biking and prefer other modes of transportation.
4. Socio-Economic Factors: Factors such as income, education, and occupation may influence a person’s decision to bike, with some individuals having better access to bikes and cycling infrastructure.
5. Attitudes and Culture: Social attitudes and cultural norms may influence how people view cycling and whether it is a viable mode of transportation.
6. Safety Concerns: Safety concerns such as theft and accidents can affect both bikers and non-bikers in the city.

Source: Baguio City Public Information Office

Overall, the complex interplay of these factors can significantly influence the uptake of biking as a mode of transportation in Baguio City.

Final Thoughts

The integration of biking into Baguio City’s traffic system is a significant step towards sustainable transportation and a healthier, more active lifestyle for the city’s residents. The establishment of shared roads, first aid stations, and penalties for violators of the Biking Code reflects the city’s commitment to promoting safe and responsible biking practices.

As Baguio City continues to grow along with rising infrastructures such as condominiums for sale, it is crucial to prioritize sustainable modes of transportation like biking, which not only reduces congestion and pollution but also provides numerous health and economic benefits. By encouraging and supporting biking as a viable mode of transportation, Baguio City is taking an important step towards building a greener, more livable city for all its residents.

Where in Baguio that motorcycle are not allowed?

In Baguio City, motorcycles are not allowed to operate in certain areas to reduce traffic congestion and promote pedestrian safety. These areas include the central business district and certain roads that are designated as pedestrian zones, such as Session Road. Additionally, during certain events or festivals, motorcycles may be restricted in other parts of the city to ensure the safety of pedestrians and reduce traffic congestion. It is important for motorcycle riders to be aware of these restrictions and comply with them to avoid penalties and promote safety in the city.

Is biking allowed in Baguio?

Baguio City is a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts due to its scenic and winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Some of the popular routes for motorcycle riders in Baguio City include:

1. Kennon Road – a steep and winding road that offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys of the Cordillera region. You can also pass through the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center on this road.

Source: Facebook/Kuyang Tan-tan

1. Marcos Highway – a scenic road that connects Baguio City to the nearby province of La Union and offers views of the mountains and the sea.
2. Naguilian Road– a winding road that takes you through pine forests, rice terraces, and scenic viewpoints.
3. Asin Road – a picturesque route that takes you through hot springs, waterfalls, and mountain villages.
4. Loakan Road – a scenic and winding road that passes through the Baguio City airport, Camp John Hay, Baguio General Hospital, and Medical Center and offers views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

You can also visit Outlook Drive, where you’ll find a house and lot properties for sale, a condo for sale, and even a luxury condominium in Baguio such as Bern by Brittany Corporation. While these routes offer stunning views and exhilarating rides, it is important to prioritize safety and follow all local traffic rules and regulations.

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