BAGUIO CITY – City officials recently requested the concerned offices of the city government to conduct a feasibility study and integrate e-micro mobility such as e-scooters and e-bicycles as alternative modes of transportation through the public-private partnership (PPP) in the city.
Under Resolution No. 740, series of 2023, local legislators stated that the use of alternative modes of transportation contributes to a healthier environment anchored on the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on good health and wellbeing; affordable and clean energy, industry, innovation and infrastructure; and sustainable cities and communities promoting innovation and technological advances for public use.
During the Scout Officials for A Day (SOFAD) session held on October 23, 2023, the SOFAD Council adopted the proposal of SOFAD Councilor Sophia Alessia Mari L. Valencia that requested the city government to conduct a study and integrate e-micro mobility, e-scooters and e-bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation through PPP.
The council said that the growing population of the city affects the quality and accessibility of transportation among the general public, thus, resulting in dependence on personal vehicles to be able to conveniently move around.
Further, the increasing number of petroleum-dependent vehicles also contributes to a high rate of carbon emission resulting to air pollution which does not conform with the pertinent provisions of Republic Act (RA) 8749 or the Philippine Clean Air Act.
The council claimed that introducing and pilot testing e-mobility would provide an alternative mode of transportation and may encourage the public to switch to other available modes of transport such as the use of e-vehicles.
The body underscored that e-mobility encourages the development of smart applications that provide information on options, including availability, routes and payment options.
Copies of this resolution will be transmitted to the concerned offices of the local government for their information, guidance, ready reference and further needed action. By Dexter A. See