The local government of Pasig on Tuesday launched an interest-free bike loan program to its city employees to promote biking as a sustainable mode of transportation especially during the pandemic.

The city’s transport department initiated the Pasig City Employee Bike Loan Program in celebration of World Car Free Day.

Pasig city employees who are eligible to avail of the interest-free loan may visit the bit.ly/PasigEmployeeBikeLoans and fill out the application form.

The city government said the program is open to all qualified employees of the city government.

“This is an interest-free loan to help city employees purchase bikes and bike accessories in order to promote biking and to provide employees with a sustainable means of transportation,” the city government said in an advisory.

The deadline for application for the bike loan program is on Sept. 28.

The city government said the program is being implemented under the Easy Pondong Pasigueño, a loan facility for various social purposes funded by the local government.

“It is managed by the EPP Project Management Committee, as defined by Executive Order No. PCG 46 s.2020, and an EPP Secretariat,” the city said.

In San Juan City, Mayor Francis Zamora urged residents to observe environment-friendly travel in celebration of World Car Free Day 2020.

Zamora encouraged motorists to temporarily rest their vehicles.

“Maaari kayong maglakad patungo sa inyong mga destinasyon lalo na kung malapit lang ito, o di kaya naman ay gumamit ng bisikleta (You can walk to your destinations nearby, or use a bicycle as an alternative),” he said.

The city government, meanwhile, launched the #SabaySaBike program allowing a group of bikers to ride their bicycles within 20 to 24-kilometer route, provided that they practice physical distancing and wearing of face masks.

Bikers should only use a single line in the existing bike lanes. (PNA)