The city government of Davao on Friday issued Executive Order No. 40 suspending the bicycle registration and the payment of fees.
Meanwhile, bicycle lanes can now be used in the city.
According to the executive order, limited public transportation forced Davaoeños to use their bicycles as an alternative mode of travel.
During the joint committee hearing by the City Council committees on peace and public safety and transportation and communication last June 10 and 15, 2020, it was brought to the attention of the body that the Traffic Code of Davao and the existing Bicycle Ordinance stipulate contradicting provisions regarding bicycle registration and registration fees.
It is the reason why Mayor Sara Duterte signed the order temporarily suspending the registration to give the chance to harmonize both laws. It will also allow “Davaoeños the use of the bike lanes without fear of penalty for non-registration.”
Duterte ordered the suspension of license requirement, registration, attachment of a license plate, and the penalties for bicycle owners.
The duration of the suspension will last until the State of Public Health Emergency in the country will be lifted, “or until the amendments harmonizing the Traffic Code and the Bicycle Ordinance have been approved.”
The bicycle lanes, meanwhile, are for the exclusive use of bicycles, except trisikads. “No motorized transport vehicle may use, park or stop on the marked bicycle lanes. Pedestrians are urged to use the sidewalks and not the bicycle lanes to give way to persons on bicycles,” it said.
Cyclists, however, are urged to wear a headgear or reflectors when on the road. Their bicycles should also have warning lights attached to them.
“Riders with cargo shall not carry the same with their hands while operating the bike, nor place the same on their handlebars or along the wheelbase,” the EO said. “Cargo must be placed in a wearable backpack or on a basket or carrier in front of the handlebars or behind the seat.”
