The Negros Occidental provincial government marked the World Day of Remembrance of Road Traffic Victims at the Capitol grounds in Bacolod City on Sunday, November 21.
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and provincial officials led the activity, participated in by Capitol office heads and employees, national government agencies, non-government organizations, and private groups.
A marker was unveiled at the Capitol Lagoon as part of the activity. It serves as a constant reminder to all commuters to observe road safety rules to prevent deaths and injuries in order to save more lives, a press release from the Capitol said.
The World Day of Remembrance is themed, “Act for low speeds/act for low speed streets”, which aims to raise awareness on road safety and preventable road accidents.
Lacson said that in 2006 Negros Occidental was one of the pioneering provinces to adopt the UN resolution declaring that every 3rd Sunday of November be dedicated as World Day of Remembrance for road traffic victims and their families.
He thanked Project CARES for being the Provincial government’s partner in the advocacy.
“To the families who have lost a loved one on the road, we are with you in remembering them.
May this day of memorial drive us not to just reflect on the lives lost but to act timely and accordingly in order to save lives, and avoid further loss,” said the governor.
He also said that the task to ensure road safety rests on the efficient cooperation between all sector and agencies capable of effecting change and improvement, from legislation to pertinent laws, strict implementation, appropriate management, and the disciplined adherence of the people.
A mass was also held officiated by Rev. Fr. Brigido Casas, followed by the candle lighting, prayers and floral offerings at the road safety memorial tree at the Capitol Park.
Present at the activity were Board Members Juvy Pepello, Pal Guanzon, and Miguel Alonso, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Director Col. Romy Palgue, and May Altarejos Cueva of Project CARES, among others.*