Due to the growing urbanization, economy, and motorization, greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector in the Philippines are projected to double by 2030. Transportation is responsible for 80% of air pollution emissions, costing 1.9% of GDP, and 27,000 premature deaths. Active mobility has the potential to reduce 3.46 million tons of emissions in highly urbanized cities while contributing to public health, equity, and green socio-economic recovery.

In response to the pandemic, cities in the Philippines are paying more attention to active mobility; however, cities need to overcome challenges such as limited data, lack of political support, limited capacity for local policy, and planning to move towards climate-friendly mobility systems. Resilient, equitable transport systems must become the norm. Walking and cycling, in particular, have been catalysts for redesigning streets and generating momentum toward people-centered cities.