BukSU Recognizes Eco-Friendly Staff on National Bike-to-Work Day

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Bukidnon State University personnel, Mr. Josue Bustamante and Mr. Rey Presores, discovered a new passion for biking. Four years later, they continue to pursue this hobby.

Both Bustamante and Presores still commute to the BukSU campus daily on their bicycles.

“It’s like hitting two birds with one stone,” Bustamante explained. “Biking to work is great exercise, and it’s economical because it saves me money on vehicle fuel.”

“Biking has been especially beneficial for my health,” Presores shared. “When I suffered a knee injury, biking helped me recover and heal.”

In observance of the National Bike-to-Work Day on November 29, 2024, BukSU recognized seven personnel who consistently use bicycle as their primary means of commuting to work.

Alongside Bustamante and Presores, the honorees included Mr. Giovanni Jan Sanchez, Mr. Salvador Ladao, Mr. Danilo Bionson, Mr. Gerry Taray, and Mr. Denzel Moreno.

“I hope you will sustain this activity as it reduces your carbon footprint,” said BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol during the recognition ceremony. “You are role models for the university, and I hope this will inspire your colleagues to follow suit.”

The celebration aligns with Proclamation No. 409, s. 2023, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which designates the last working day of November as National Bike-to-Work Day. This initiative supports the government’s efforts to promote a balanced and healthful ecology, ensure harmony between development and environmental protection, and maintain air quality conducive to human health and welfare.

According to BukSU’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) focal person, Mr. Joseph Gelacio, the event highlights the university’s commitment to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

To further encourage sustainable transportation, the university installed bicycle parking racks at Gate 3 last year, making it easier for personnel to choose biking as a practical and eco-friendly mode of commuting. (BukSU-Information Unit)