Biking has gradually risen to popularity as an alternative mode of transportation around the Metro since the pandemic began. In Manila, for example, the city has been amping up its efforts to further promote its culture of cycling by installing bike racks that double as art installations that will not only make you feel excited to ride on your bike but will also get you to experience the spirit of Manila’s heritage.
The City Government of Manila, in partnership with insurance company Allianz PNB Life, unveiled the bike racks on 28th May in celebration of National Flag Day and the 450th anniversary of the City of Manila. Placed on various key streets of the city, the four racks – Alon, Tabak, Maya, and Kalesa – were named and sculpted to reflect our very own culture.
Alon bike rack
Image credit: Allianz PNB Life
The Alon Bike rack was assembled as rows of curvaceous lines on Rajah Sulayman Park, where you can see Manila Bay, to reimagine the bay’s waves and sunsets.
Tabak bike rack
Image credit: Allianz PNB Life
Across from the Bonifacio Shrine or Kartilya ng Katipunan monument, the Tabak bike rack symbolizes Andres Bonifacio and his men’s bravery in fighting for our sovereignty during the Spanish colonial era.
Maya bike rack
Image credit: Allianz PNB Life
The Maya bike rack at the Liwasang Bonifacio is a nod to the small Maya birds that were once commonly seen in the city’s parks and churches.
Kalesa bike rack
Image credit: Allianz PNB Life
At the Plaza Roma in front of the Manila Cathedral, cyclists can also park their bicycles in the Kalesa bike rack which takes inspiration from the kalesa or horse-drawn carriage that was one of our earliest modes of transportation.
It’s indeed more fun to cycle around Manila with these bike racks that are not only functional but also add a touch of character to our streets!
Building more spaces for our cyclists will definitely further promote biking around Manila. These heritage bike racks, that are also art installations, are refreshing, eye-catching sights that elevate our cyclists’ experience while roaming around the capital city.
Here’s to more urban projects like these!
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Cover image adapted from: Allianz PNB Life
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