May 2019: During the Fifth UN Global Road Safety Week, road safety leaders and partners in the Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to reducing road traffic deaths and injuries. 

The event included a multi-stakeholder forum with nearly 100 representatives from national agencies, local government units (LGUs), academia, non-government and civil society organizations, including groups representing people with disabilities as well as pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.

Carrying the theme “Leadership for Road Safety: Making a Difference,” the Philippine commemoration of the 5th UN Global Road Safety Week also marked the official handover of the updated Philippine Road Safety Action Plan (PRSAP) 2017-2022.

Around 30 people are killed on road in the Philippines each day, many of them motorcyclists. As the economy continues to grow, there is a risk that more travel will lead to more deaths on the roads.

iRAP’s Managing Director iRAP’s Managing Director – Strategic Projects, Greg Smith attended the event and said ‘That is why it is so pleasing to see leaders from across so many government and non-government organisation coming together to commit to saving lives on Philippines roads’.

With support from the World Bank and Bloomberg Philanthropies, iRAP is working closely with the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Transport, Department of Agriculture, UNICEF, the University of Philippines and local consultants to build local capacity to Star Rate roads and make them safer for the community.

Read full event summary article from the World Health Organisation here