ILOILO CITY is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of cycling with the upcoming 10th Iloilo Bike Festival. This event not only aims to reinforce the city’s reputation as the "Bike City of the Philippines" but also highlights the significant health and environmental benefits of using bicycles as a mode of transportation.
“Iloilo City’s 10th Bike Festival is not just a celebration of cycling. It is a powerful statement about sustainable living, community unity, and the health benefits of an active lifestyle,” explained by Ar. Wilfredo Sy. Jr., the Bike Festival Coordinator.
Set to commence in June, the festival is hosted by the Iloilo Business Park, a prime location known for its bike-friendly environment.
This year’s festivities promise a diverse array of activities designed to showcase cycling as a sustainable lifestyle and an efficient alternative for commuting.
Car-Free Day
The festival kicks off with a Car-Free Day, promoting an active lifestyle by encouraging walking, jogging, and cycling.
This initiative is a clear nod to the benefits of reducing vehicle use for a healthier environment and community.
On July 20, the official opening will feature a Bike Exhibit and Race, offering a thrilling start with a long-distance ride around the province.
This day also includes a museum tour, making it a rich blend of physical activity and cultural engagement. The following day, young cyclists will have their moment in the spotlight with a race at Casa De Emperador, designed specifically for children.
Bike-Friendly Community
Throughout the festival, participants can look forward to engaging events such as a Mobility Forum, recognizing partners and sponsors who support sustainable transport initiatives.
One of the most ambitious goals of the festival is to break a Guinness World Record by forming the Largest Human Image of a Bicycle, aiming to gather 5,000 participants. This attempt symbolizes the community's unity and commitment to promoting cycling.
The Iloilo Business Park's recognition as a Large Bicycle-Friendly Commercial Establishment by the Mobility Awards underscores its perfect fit as the festival’s host.
This award-winning township supports the festival's core values: environmental advocacy, health and wellness, community engagement, and inclusivity.
Key events include the Double Century Ride, a non-competitive 200-kilometer cycling tour showcasing the province’s beauty. For cycling enthusiasts, the Ambitious Bike Race and Cyclopedia Bike Exhibit provide opportunities to explore various cycling disciplines and admire an array of bicycles.
Pedal Party
Other highlights include the Pedal Party, a fellowship night for bike groups, and the Bike Food Crawl, where participants can enjoy a curated food tour using bicycles.
CineSiklista, a social media reel competition, aims to spread the joy of cycling through creative short videos.
The festival culminates with a Pedal Pride event, a grand fun ride designed to gather cyclists of all kinds, and the BMX - Bikes and Music Xperience, blending cycling with live music.
The closing ceremony, titled "Bike to the Future," will celebrate the festival’s success and recognize competition winners.
By promoting cycling as a viable transportation option, the festival aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and sets a shining example for other cities to follow. Join the festivities and be part of a movement that pedals towards a healthier, greener future.
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