Emil Sumangil walks, bikes to bare dangers to pedestrians, bikers

GMA News reporter Emil Sumangil on Friday walked and biked on some of Metro Manila's streets to see if these are viable options to move around as the Department of Health suggested amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the report on “24 Oras,” the DOH said walking and bicycles would have an important role for Filipino commuters in the new normal.The DOH added walking and cycling would also boost an individual’s immune system.

However, walking and biking in the metropolis was not entirely safe as there were still many obstructions along the way.

Motorists turning right at an intersection ignored the green light for pedestrians and even honked their horns in apparent annoyance.

"Ba't kayo bumubusina e naka-green kami," Sumangil said as he confronted a UV driver.

His walk on Quezon Avenue showed obstructions such as cars parked on the sidewalk.

As for bikers, not all areas in Metro Manila have bicycle lanes.

Among the dangers cyclists face are the potholes and fast cars.

According to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, all sidewalks along EDSA were already cleared for pedestrians and cyclists.

“We’re in support po sa ating mga siklista. In fact, naglagay nga po ng mga bike stations, mga repair stations sa iba’t ibang areas sa kahabaan ng EDSA. Halos po 90% ng mga sidewalks sa major thoroughfares ay friendly, wala pong obstruction,” MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago said.

“Ang hirap po kasi sa karamihan ng ating mga driver ay wala pong road courtesy. Hindi ho dahil tayo ay naka-four-wheel, tayo na ang may-ari ng kalsada. ‘Yong mga bike din naman po, hindi porket tayo ay naka-bike lamang, tayo naman po ay magpapasaway din. ‘Yong mga pedestrian din po dapat alert din,” she added. -Ma. Angelica Garcia/NB, GMA News