The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) officially inaugurated four shower room facilities for cyclists on March 17, 2026, at the MMDA Motorcycle Riding Academy.

According to the MMDA, this initiative serves as a strategic measure to support individuals who are using bicycles as a mode of transportation to work. 

The facilities are designed to allow bicycle commuters to refresh themselves going to work after a ride.

“Pag nagbisikleta ka, pupunta ka sa meeting lalong lalo na [kapag] medyo formal ang meeting, hirap naman na amoy pawis ka, amoy usok ka, realidad naman yan dito sa Pilipinas,”  according to MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes

[“When you commute by bicycle to a meeting, especially if that’s quite a bit formal, it’s difficult if you smell sweaty or smoky; that’s a reality here in the Philippines.”]

This initiative is supported by Karen Crisostomo of Bicycle Friendly Philippines. She mentioned that several individuals hesitate to bike to work due to hygiene concerns.

“We hopefully encourage more people to bike, kasi their excuse is ‘ayoko mag-bike kasi pagdating ko, I look so sweaty, I look so hot, or I look dirty, at least this will eliminate that excuse,” she said

[“We hopefully encourage more people to bike because their excuse is ‘I don’t want to bike because upon arrival, I look so sweaty, I look so hot, or I look dirty, at least this will eliminate that excuse,”]

Aside from giving refreshment to commuters, Cristosmo also noted the relevance of cycling to the health and environment.

“We’ve been pushing the bicycle ever since because it is really good for the health. It’s good for the environment,” she said

It is also a good alternative to save fuel consumption amid fuel shock. 

“With the rising cost of the fuel, definitely, malaking tulong ang bisikleta,” Cristomo added.

[“With the rising cost of fuel, definitely, bicycles would be a big help.”]

Under the leadership of General Manager Nicolas Torre III, the MMDA plans to build more facilities across various locations in Metro Manila, particularly near the presence of MMDA offices.

With reports from Mia Alonzo

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