By Fernan Angeles
NOT all cyclists biking their way to work could afford to buy helmet which is now a must in Quezon City.
As such, the Quezon City local government unit announced they are giving away bicycle helmets to financially vulnerable riders, after a city ordinance was passed mandating helmet use.
“The city government will help those who are too financially vulnerable to comply with the recently passed Ordinance,” Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said.
“Gagawin natin ito upang matulungan ang mga nagbibisikleta na hindi kayang bumili ng helmet upang hindi masakripisyo ang kanilang kaligtasan,” she said.
The QC council earlier passed an ordinance requiring bicycle riders to wear helmets on city roads.
The ordinance provides stiff penalties. Those who will be caught riding a bicycle without a helmet will fined 1,000 for the first offense; P3,000 for the second offense; and P5,000 for the third offense. The city council agreed to cut down the fines after advocacy groups made an appeal.
Belmonte said the LGU will give riders ample time to comply before the enforcement of the ordinance.
“While waiting for the final approval of the implementing rules and regulations, bicycle riders will just receive a reminder on the proper wearing of helmet,” she said.
Belmonte said the ordinance was passed to ensure bicycle riding will be a safe mode of transportation.
The LGU has started giving away free bicycle helmets on Thursday in strategic areas in Quezon City.
Helmets range from P500 up to P1,500 in some of the bike shops in Quezon City, with the cheapest price sometimes even running out of stock.