MANILA, Philippines – More than 1.25 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Road crashes do not only result in injuries or fatalities to victims but also affect the families and friends who lost their loved ones.
Every year, the World Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims is commemorated on the 3rd week of November. It was observed by RoadPeace in 1993 and has been observed and promoted worldwide by several non-governmental organizations.
The day of remembrance aims to "respond to the great need of road crash victims for public recognition of their loss and suffering." It also serves as an opportunity to give awareness to the public on the enormous scale and impact of road crash injuries and fatalities.
Several advocates and stakeholders will hold events to remember the families and the victims of road crash incidents. Here are some of the activties:
Metro Manila
November 19, UP Town Center, Quezon City
The Department of Transportation will hold a motorcade in Quezon City on Sunday. The motorcade will start at 7 am from UP Town Center along Katipunan Avenue and will go around Commonwealth Avenue.
As part of DOTr's commitment to reducing road traffic fatalities, the Philippine Road Safety Action Plan 2017 to 2022 will be launched on Sunday.
November 19, Manila Ocean Park, Pasay
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) will hold a post-crash training on Sunday at the Manila Ocean Park. The event will be from 11 am to 5 pm.
As part of the activities for the World Day of Remembrance, a first aid and basic life support training will be given to attendees. A talk on safety procedures while on the road will also be given.
Negros Occidental
November 19, Negros Occidental
Project CARES with the Philippine Association of Medical Technologist (PAMET) invites the public to a blood donation drive on Sunday. Interested groups and individuals may collaborate with any PAMET chapter in Negros Occidental to donate blood.
Iloilo
November 28, Jaro, Iloilo City, Iloilo
The Department of Health Region VI will hold a motorcade on November 28 as part of the activities of the Violence and Injury Prevention Program unit of the department.
Assembly time will be at 7:30 am at Trenas Boulevard in Lapaz, Iloilo City. The motorcade will go around the city proper, Lapaz, and Jaro districts. A program at the Eon Centennial Hotel Resort and Waterworld in Alta Tierra, Jaro, will follow.– Rappler.com