The Department of Health is encouraging the public to consider cycling as a safe and healthy alternative to public transportation for commuting to work.

In a chance interview during Wednesday's launching of the "Biyaheng Kalusugan: National Bike to Work Day," Herbosa cited the benefits of cycling to one's health.

"Cycling is one of those that can really prolong your life, improve the functions of your heart, your heart will get better, your lungs will get better [because it's a] cardiopulmonary exercise, and also the joints if you're older," he said.

"Moving and doing a lot of activity will keep you healthy. Very important," he added.

Tony Dans, a cycling advocate, also emphasized the benefits of cycling to the mental health and environment.

Dans said cycling helps prevent the spread of communicable diseases, which is important as restrictions on mobility are lifted in the new normal.

"It improves air quality. Good for the environment," he said.

Shower rooms

Herbosa urged employers to provide shower rooms in their workplaces for individuals who are using active transport as a mode of transportation.

"For private corporations and government institutions, we hope they will provide changing rooms, locker, or shower rooms because you know in the Philippines, it is very humid," he explained.

"When you bike to work, you will really perspire. I hope they can have rooms where they can change their clothes," he added.

According to a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations last year, approximately 10 percent of the population, or 11.2 million people, use bicycles for transportation.

The survey also states that one in every three households in Metro Manila owns a bicycle, outnumbering car owners in the region.