Quezon city: In a bid to lessen road crashes and accidents in the city, the Quezon City government has partnered with public interest law group ImagineLaw to intensify its road safety policies and enforcement mechanism toward a zero-casualty record.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Joy Belmonte announced that this initiative is part of the city's commitment with the Partnership for Healthy Cities, a global network of 74 cities dedicated to preventing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and injuries. Mayor Belmonte emphasized the importance of this partnership in tackling the issue of road crashes and making roads safer for all users, particularly pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable groups.
Globally, NCDs and injuries account for over 80 percent of all deaths, and with most of the world's population residing in urban areas, cities are in a unique position to combat these issues. By implementing effective policies, cities can reduce exposure to risk factors and prevent avoidable deaths.
In 2020, Quezon City's Transport and Traffic Management Department recorded 1,841 vehicular crashes, resulting in 12 fatalities and 638 injuries. These incidents also impacted the mobility and livelihood of 57 pedestrians involved in accidents. The city government highlighted the growing need for effective road safety policies and enforcement to ensure zero deaths on city roads, given the increasing number of road users and vehicles.
The collaboration between the city government and ImagineLaw aims to enforce the city's existing road safety ordinance more effectively through improved road crash data management, safer road designs, and stricter enforcement of speed limits and other safety laws. Additionally, the partnership seeks to enhance post-crash response systems for faster emergency action and better victim support.
ImagineLaw executive director Sophia San Luis expressed excitement about working with Quezon City towards the full implementation of the Quezon City Road Safety Code, highlighting the shared commitment to improving road safety in the city.
