Power Wheels Magazine A Notch Above
Each year, millions of families around the world are forever changed by the devastating impact of road traffic accidents. Behind every number is a story: parents who lost their children, children who lost their parents, friends who lost loved ones in an instant. Since the first recorded road death, over 50 million lives have been claimed, and hundreds of millions more have been injured. These aren’t just statistics; they are heart-wrenching stories of lives cut short and dreams shattered.
As we observe the 2025 World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDoR2025), held annually on the third Sunday of November, we pause to honor those who have been lost, to remember their stories, and to renew our commitment to safer roads. This day is a solemn reminder that behind every tragedy lies a human life, each one precious and irreplaceable.
In the Philippines, this pain has been recognized through the enactment of Republic Act No. 11468, the “World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims Act.” This law signifies our government’s dedication to reducing road traffic injuries and fatalities and highlights the collective responsibility we all share. It is a call for unity, for drivers, pedestrians, policymakers, and communities to work together to prevent future tragedies.
In support of this vital cause, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), together with the Motorcycle Philippines Federation (MCPF), an organization dedicated to advocating for road safety, supporting victims and their families, and promoting evidence-based actions to reduce road traffic injuries and fatalities, initiated the WDoR event specifically for motorcycle riders. This initiative underscores the importance of targeted safety campaigns, especially for vulnerable road users like motorcyclists, who are among the most at risk.
But beyond laws and statistics, the true power lies in stories, stories of individuals whose lives have been changed forever in a split second. Their experiences serve as stark reminders of the importance of road safety and the urgent need for each of us to act with care, responsibility, and compassion.
Let us honor their memories by committing today to be more vigilant, more cautious, and more caring on the roads. Because every life matters. Because no family should have to suffer the pain of losing a loved one due to preventable accidents.
Together, we can create a future where roads are safer for everyone. Let’s remember those we’ve lost and pledge to build a world where tragedy is no longer a common story but a rare exception.