Thousands of cycling enthusiasts from all over the country recently came together for Pedal Forward, a nationwide celebration spearheaded by SM Cares aimed at promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation that contributes to a cleaner, greener, and more cycling-inclusive Philippines. The event took place simultaneously at SM by the BAY and select SM Supermalls across the country last November 23.
Declared through Proclamation No. 1052, National Bicycle Day is celebrated every fourth Sunday of November, aiming to promote a culture of cycling to reduce carbon emissions, alleviate traffic congestion, and promote public health. In line with this annual observance, SM Cares created Pedal Forward with the goal of bringing together cyclists from all walks of life and encouraging them to ride not just for fun, but as an active contribution toward sustainability.
One of the highlights of the event was a Community Bike Fun Ride that took place at SM by the BAY, with similar bike rides held simultaneously in many other SM Supermalls, collectively engaging over 2,100 riders.
One of the highlights of National Bicycle Day is the Bike-Friendly Check, an initiative empowering cyclists to suggest improvements for making SM malls more bike-friendly. Participants assess facilities across 86 SM Supermalls nationwide, which currently offers over 6,300 bike parking slots, repair stations, and tenants with bike products and services. Committed to sustainability, health, and community building, SM continuously invests in enhancing its bike facilities to ensure malls are safe and accessible. Through the Bike-Friendly Check, SM aims to improve amenities, reinforcing its leadership in promoting a bike-friendly environment for the growing cycling community.
The event underscored the theme of community, drawing support from various cycling advocacy groups, local government representatives, and partners in the private sector, while inspiring participants to embrace biking not only as part of their daily routine, but to nurture healthier and more sustainable communities.
SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Children and Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative. To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.
