MCDONALD'S Philippines is making significant efforts to promote a pollution-free environment as it participates in the 10th Bike Festival in Iloilo City, recognized as the 'Bike Capital of the Philippines.'
The fast-food giant introduced its Tour de McDo to the Ilonggo cyclists, a multistage biking event, in partnership with San Ride Bukas and Sikad Ta Iloilo, that kicked off at McDonald's Iloilo Business Park in Megaworld Boulevard on June 30.
The activity, which draws in around 400 cycling enthusiasts, is among the events featured in the annual celebration of the country's bike capital.
Bike enthusiasts pedaled through the city's streets in two categories: the 15-kilometer (km) route and a more challenging 30-km course.
Themed 'Cycle for Change: Celebrating 10 Years of Cycling Culture,' a total of 26 cycling activities were held.
Adi Hernandez, McDonald's Philippines assistant vice president for corporate relations and impact, said the initiative is part of the company's Green & Good program, which focuses on sustainable practices in its restaurants and promotes eco-friendly transportation.
'With the rise of cycling as both a means of transportation and recreation, our goal at McDonald's was clear — be a place where cyclists can safely and conveniently stop over for their favorite meals,' Hernandez said.
'More importantly, we recognize the positive impact of cycling both for the individual and for the environment.'
Hernandez also said that the Tour de McDo, the fast-food giant was able to engage with various cycling communities and jointly promote cycling among Filipinos.
McDonald's Philippines' participation marked the first Tour de McDo in the Visayas and the third event in the country since June 2023.
Iloilo City has earned recognition as a Galing Pook Awardee in 2022 for its I-Bike Program, which promotes the development of a biking culture in the city. It has also been a two-time Gold Awardee for the Most Bicycle-Friendly City by Mobility Awards.
These recognitions granted the city the opportunity to host the National Bike Day Awards and Recognition in November 2023.