Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) general manager Nicolas Torre III on Sunday urged Filipino workers to consider cycling to work as a viable alternative to the region’s persistent traffic congestion.

Speaking at the 129th Tiklop General Assembly of the Tiklop Society of the Philippines at UP Diliman, Torre said the government must remain open to alternative transport solutions and evaluate them based on current road conditions.

Torre, who recently discussed his plans in a radio interview, said he intends to bring the proposal to the Metro Manila Council.

While many protected bike lanes established during the Covid-19 pandemic have since been removed by local governments, Torre argued that biking remains a practical option.

“I am suggesting an alternative — ride a bike,” Torre said.

He cited that while dedicated lanes are necessary on major thoroughfares, they are not always feasible on narrow streets. In those areas, he advocated for road sharing and “safe” lane splitting.

However, Torre stressed that the primary obstacle for many potential cyclists is not road access, but the lack of hygiene facilities at their destinations.

“What cyclists really need are shower rooms and changing areas at their workplaces,” Torre said.

To address this, he plans to propose that the Metro Manila Council provide incentives or subsidies for businesses that install these facilities for their employees.

The move comes as the Department of Transportation recently rejected proposals to allow carpooling on the EDSA Busway, and Malacañang remains cautious about opening the dedicated lane to other vehicles.

Pio Fortuno Jr., founder of the Tiklop Society of the Philippines, welcomed Torre’s stance, noting that cycling advocates now have a “strong voice” within the MMDA.