Active transport, particularly bike commuting, has become an increasingly popular solution for avoiding traffic in the Philippines. A 2023 survey by the Social Weather Station revealed that over a third of Filipinos own a bicycle. As national and local government agencies work towards expanding bike lanes and building more bike-friendly infrastructure, Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) is supporting this growing movement towards a healthier and more eco-friendly lifestyle with its Ride Safe Campaign.
Launched in 2021, the Ride Safe advocacy focuses on raising awareness about bike safety and the benefits of active transport, collaborating with local government units in cities like San Juan, Taguig, and Manila. Recently, AZPNBL expanded its initiative with Ride Safe 2.0, which aims to support individuals and families by fostering livelihoods in bike repair.
Sustainable Livelihood
Ride Safe 2.0 is an innovative program designed to provide livelihood support to selected beneficiaries of the Family Strengthening Program (FSP) of SOS Children’s Village Pilipinas, who are interested in entrepreneurship. The program focuses on addressing daily needs and creating pathways for sustainable income through bike-related businesses.
Key components of the program include technical entrepreneurship training, business management, financial planning, and bike maintenance skills, which participants learn at the Hermann Gmeiner National Training Center. They also gain hands-on experience through apprenticeship opportunities with skilled bike mechanics and entrepreneurs. Upon completing the program, successful participants receive seed capital to establish bike repair hubs, covering essential startup costs.
“Our goal with Ride Safe 2.0 is to lay the groundwork for economic independence and sustainability through bike-related ventures,” says Ramon Lee Cualoping III, National Director & CEO of SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas.
Inclusive Growth
Ride Safe 2.0 was launched in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas, benefiting families from Tacloban, Iloilo, and Cebu villages. The program is designed to empower participants, particularly women, with the skills needed to set up their own bike shops.
Three beneficiaries from SOS Children’s Village in Tacloban became bike repair entrepreneurs after completing comprehensive training. They were provided with food and transportation allowances and successfully opened a Bike Repair Shop in Barangay 97-Cabalawan, Tacloban City.
In Cebu, aspiring entrepreneur Joseph Salonoy received technical and entrepreneurship training from Ride Safe 2.0, along with P120,000 in two tranches to start his bike repair business. He was able to open a bike repair shop in Purok Avocado, Bgy. Tawason, Mandaue City.
The Allianz-Ride Safe 2.0 grant also enabled individuals like Jeram Tubongbanua, Regen Rubin, Renato Gadot Jr., Ricky Natalio, and Fermin Lintuco Jr. to establish successful bike shops in Iloilo. With seed capital, essential tools, and training, these entrepreneurs have not only created income streams for their families but also become key contributors to their communities by offering essential bike repair services and affordable parts.
“The success stories of these individuals highlight the power of collaboration, skills development, and community engagement in driving progress. The Allianz-Ride Safe 2.0 grant has empowered these people, sparked positive change, inspired others to pursue entrepreneurship, and contributed to the betterment of their communities. This initiative aligns with Allianz’s global strategy and commitment to investing in communities to build resilience and confidence for a better tomorrow,” says Joe Gross, CEO of Allianz PNB Life.
For more information about Allianz PNB Life and the Ride Safe 2.0 campaign, visit www.allianzpnblife.ph.
