The Move As One Coalition, an advocacy group for sustainable transport, has expressed support for the appointments of Vince Dizon as Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Giovanni Lopez as Acting Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The coalition sees these appointments as a historic opportunity to align the two agencies and create a shared vision for people-centered infrastructure.
For five years, the coalition has advocated for transport infrastructure that prioritizes commuters, pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users. With Secretary Dizon’s appointment, they believe they finally have a partner at the DPWH who understands that infrastructure isn’t just about building roads for cars, but about enabling safe and accessible mobility for all Filipinos. The coalition looks forward to working with him to ensure taxpayer money is spent wisely on effective and inclusive projects.
The coalition is also encouraged by Acting Secretary Lopez’s appointment to the DOTr. They recognize the department’s recent progress in moving away from a car-centric approach by improving active transport facilities, enhancing bus and rail operations, and supporting public transport modernization.
The Move As One Coalition is committed to supporting Secretary Lopez as he continues these reforms and ensures the DOTr remains a responsive institution.
The coalition believes that stronger coordination between the DPWH and DOTr can lead to transformative changes, shifting development away from car-centric models toward a people-first approach. This vision includes:
A new highway design manual that incorporates safety measures like road diets and traffic calming to reduce fatalities.
Inclusive sidewalks and at-grade crossings with tree-lined streets to ensure the safety of all, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, and children.
A network of protected and connected bike lanes that make cycling a safe and dignified mode of transport.
Modern public transport terminals and stops that provide safe and comfortable spaces for commuters.
A shift in success metrics from car-centric measures to those focused on commuter service quality, road safety (zero deaths), and environmental benefits.
Transit-oriented development that integrates walking, cycling, and public transport into every infrastructure project
The Move As One Coalition said it s optimistic that Secretaries Dizon and Lopez will work together to create an infrastructure and transport system that serves the needs of the 94 percent of Filipinos who don’t own cars. This aligns with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which states that “pedestrians and cyclists will be accorded highest priority in the hierarchy of road users.”
The coalition stands ready to work with the DPWH and DOTr to seize this rare opportunity to create a transport system that is safer, more humane, and more inclusive for everyone.
