Pedal pushers

Let me be the first to say it: cycling in Manila is scary. There’s traffic, inhospitable terrain, smog and, of course, the scorching heat that makes one yearn for the comfort of an air-conditioned car. Yet anyone who has discovered the freedom and fun a bike brings would agree that making Manila bike-friendly is a good thing.

While cities like Shanghai are taking out cyclists to make way for cars, there are others like Tokyo, Paris, and Amsterdam that successfully incorporate bike commuters into daily traffic.

In Manila, there are pockets of pro-bicycle areas such as Marikina, but the movement has yet to reach a critical mass.

However, the reality of a bike-friendly Manila may not be far-fetched as a group of brave cyclists pave the way to embrace an alternative mode of transport.

Pedala is a cycling collective that offers same-day bike delivery service around Metro Manila.

Operated by Candy Reyes and Bernz Varona, this bike messenger service not only delivers goods, but promotes cycling in the Philippines.

Two years ago Candy bought her own bicycle for leisure. When gas prices started rising, she took on bike commuting to save on gas money.

Bernz, on the other hand, didn’t even know how to cycle before 2006. Once she got on a bike though, there was no stopping her.

Together, they run one of the most exciting and sustainable movements in Manila  one that supports fellow entrepreneurs, helps the environment and encourages a healthy lifestyle.

ON THE RADAR: What inspired you to make cycling your business?

Candy Reyes: When my sister put up Messy Bessy, a company that produces all-natural earth-friendly household cleaners, we were thinking of an alternative delivery arm that was equally earth-friendly. I thought about the bike messengers in cities like New York and London, and realized no one was doing it here. With rising gas prices and the increasing interest in biking in Manila, I thought it was the perfect time to introduce a business like Pedala.

Do you think there is enough of a demand?

Candy: There definitely is. We are the first ones to provide same-day delivery service in the city (all other courier companies deliver the next day), apart from providing a pollution-free alternative.

We have clients who really need things like urgent documents, keys/chargers left at home delivered right away, within the same day or even hours. Some clients also prefer our personal touch, as items are hand-carried by our bikers from sender to recipient. 

Of course, there are those who would like to do their share for the environment, one delivery at a time.

What’s it really like to cycle around Metro Manila?

Bernz Varona: It can be a bit risky since there are motorists who think we shouldn’t be on the road.

I’ve had various vehicles (jeepneys, cars, trucks) that try to run me off, thinking that since I’m on a bike, they have the right of way.

Then there’s the issue of being a female cyclist  some drivers think it’s cute to try to distract you with their catcalls and pick-up lines. Then again there are drivers who are really considerate and will give you the needed space.

Now that it’s big on Multiply, what are your other goals for Pedala?

Candy: We would really like to grow Pedala outside Metro Manila to provide more efficient and earth-friendly couriers. We’d also like to be able to provide regular bike deliveries for other companies like food chains so we can eventually replace motorcycles.

Bernz: We’d like to give more job opportunities to fellow bikers and help spread awareness regarding the sport, lifestyle and mode of transportation.

Can you clue us in to cool local cycling spots?

Bernz: Trail-wise I liked this place near Boso-Boso Montalban, which I discovered when we celebrated a biker’s birthday. Another unforgettable one is the trail in Clark (during my first duathlon) and in Muntinlupa (a first single track).

As for scenic rides, the way going to Infanta is wonderful.

What is your collective vision for cycling in the Philippines?

Candy: I’m hoping that soon, cities in Manila will have the right infrastructure  provide bike lanes and proper bike parking. Also, a lifestyle change among Filipinos, to realize the health and environmental benefits of biking.

BernZ: Taking it to a higher level, it would be great to have bike tours as the Philippines is really a beautiful place, and to see it on a bike would be truly amazing.

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For inquiries, contact Pedala at 0920-698-7777.