By Mariela Angella Oladive
Iloilo City is set to deploy 300 personnel all over the metro to guarantee the safety and security of participants during the National Bike Day Awards 2023, commencing today, November 24.
“We have already reviewed the security plan and the ICPO is fully prepared to deploy. We have also received a supplement from PSTMO. As far as I can remember, they will deploy over 300 personnel across the city to assist with security, in addition to managing traffic,” stated Architect Wilfredo Sy Jr., the director of the celebration, during a press conference held nine days before the event.
The personnel will be strategically deployed to manage and bolster security measures throughout the event.
The organizers further shared insights into the city’s preparations, mentioning the dry run they have conducted, where they identified the roads needing improvement as part of their meticulous planning.
The deployment of 300 personnel underscores Iloilo City’s dedication to hosting a seamless and secure event, ensuring that participants can enjoy the festivities without having to worry about their safety.
The celebration, running until November 26, will feature various activities, including a Bike Expo, Bike Exhibit, Fun Ride, Circuit Race, among others.
The highlight of the event is the awarding ceremony, where a lineup of 17 bike lane awards are up for grabs, such as Notable Public Official for Active Transport, Notable Competitive Cyclist, Notable Commuter Cyclist, Notable Leisure Cyclist, Notable Storyteller, Notable Bicycle-related Corporate Initiative, Notable Bicycle-related MSME Initiative and Notable Advocacy Initiative. Other awards include LGU Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards, Bike Lane Infrastructure Quality Award, and End-of-Trip Infrastructure Quality Award.
Additionally, there will be awards for the first to third places in the photo contest, along with the People’s Choice Award.
The celebration is in accordance with the Presidential Proclamation 1052, s. 2020, which declared every fourth Sunday of November as NBD to highlight the importance of non-motorized transportation as a means of fostering sustainable development and promoting environmental health that is conducive to the physical health and well-being of all Filipinos.
