The victims and families of road traffic accidents were remembered as the Negros Occidental government spearheaded the World Day of Remembrance of Road Traffic Victims on Sunday, November 21.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and other provincial officials led the activity which was 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.

The World Day of Remembrance, themed “ACT for LOW SPEEDS/ACT for LOW SPEED STREETS, 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 third 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 said 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 sectors 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. It was followed by the candle lighting, prayers and floral offerings at the road safety memorial tree at the Capitol Park./WDJ