Active transport, particularly bike commuting, is gaining traction in the Philippines as a viable alternative to avoid traffic congestion. A 2023 survey from the Social Weather Station revealed that over a third of Filipinos now own bicycles. To support this growing movement towards healthier and more eco-friendly transport options, Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) has launched its expanded Ride Safe 2.0 program, which aims to empower local communities through bike repair entrepreneurship.
Launched initially in 2021, the Ride Safe advocacy promoted bike safety awareness and the benefits of active transport. The initiative, in partnership with local government units and cities like San Juan, Taguig, and Manila, has now evolved to include Ride Safe 2.0—an innovative program offering livelihood opportunities in bike repair.
Through this program, Allianz collaborates with SOS Children’s Village Pilipinas to provide specialized training and seed capital for selected beneficiaries of its Family Strengthening Program (FSP). The program equips individuals with technical skills in bike repair, business management, and financial planning, with the aim of helping them establish sustainable income sources.
“We aim to build economic independence and long-term sustainability for our participants through bike-related ventures,” said Ramon Lee Cualoping III, CEO of SOS Children’s Villages Pilipinas.
Ride Safe 2.0 has already enabled several beneficiaries to open their own bike repair shops. In Tacloban, three women successfully launched a shop after completing their training. Meanwhile, Joseph Salonoy from Cebu and entrepreneurs from Iloilo also used their training and seed funding to open their businesses, promoting sustainable livelihoods and meeting the growing demand for bike services.
Joe Gross, CEO of Allianz PNB Life, emphasized that the program’s success stories are a testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement in driving positive change. “The Ride Safe 2.0 initiative aligns with Allianz’s global commitment to investing in communities and fostering resilience for a better future,” Gross said.
