Victorias City: Negrenses observed the National Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims, Survivors, and their Families as provided for in Republic Act (RA) 11468 through various activities on Sunday. The law designates the third Sunday of November every year as the day of the commemoration. In Victorias City, families and relatives of road crash victims gathered for a special Holy Mass at the Our Lady of Victory Parish, followed by wreath-laying and candle lighting ceremonies in three areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, at the Capitol Lagoon and Park, the Negros Occidental provincial government marked the 19th year of its own commemoration in partnership with Project CARES, a local civil society organization which is a member of the Global Road Safety Organization. Third District Board Member Manuel Frederick Ko, who delivered the message on behalf of Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, emphasized the crucial role each plays to prevent road crashes and meet the United Nation’s sustainable development go
al of cutting by 50 percent road accidents, casualties, and injuries and other traffic-related problems by 2030.

Among the activities were the blessing of the Provincial Road Safety Marker, floral offering and candle-lighting for road crash victims at the Road Safety Tree, and the blessing of the rescue, ambulance, and other service vehicles of the provincial government and its partner agencies. In a statement, Project CARES said that along with its program partners and the provincial government, they will continue to advocate for zero road crashes and safer roads for all. ‘Together, we can drive change and reduce the impact of road traffic accidents in our communities,’ it added.

Also in Bacolod, runners and other fitness enthusiasts held a walk, run, bike, and zumba event along Lacson Street to commemorate the World Day of Remembrance. ‘The activity offers a meaningful opportunity for Bacolodnons to come together, reflect, and take action. We believe that advocating for road safety starts with spreading a
wareness and engaging everyone in the community,’ the organizers said. The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims this year is themed ‘Remember. Support. Act’ to also recognize emergency services’ efforts.