By Xander Ledesma
On November 17, 2024, a somber procession of motorcycle enthusiasts gathered in Bacolod City to observe the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, a global event dedicated to honoring those whose lives have been claimed by road accidents and to raising awareness about the importance of road safety. The Negros Unity Riders (NUR), a respected group known for their community service and disaster response efforts, marked this occasion through their NUR 615 Rescue Responder initiative, standing in solidarity with the victims and their families, while advocating for stronger road safety measures.
The event brought together hundreds of motorcycle riders from all over Negros Occidental. The ride, though a memorial, was also a call for action—demanding better road safety protocols and enhanced support systems for those impacted by road traffic accidents. As the riders revved their engines and rode through the streets of Bacolod City, their procession symbolized a collective voice calling for change.
Observed annually on the third Sunday of November, the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims serves as a platform for people worldwide to reflect on the devastating effects of road traffic accidents. Established in 1993 by the European Road Safety Council (ERSC), the day has gained global significance, with events held in cities across the world. It provides an opportunity for communities to reflect on the more than 1.35 million fatalities caused by road accidents each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
In the Philippines, road accidents have become a growing concern. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) report thousands of fatalities annually due to vehicle collisions. In 2023, over 11, 000 people lost their lives in road-related accidents. The event in Bacolod City, organized by the Negros Unity Riders, highlighted the urgent need for stronger road safety initiatives, better traffic laws, and ongoing public education on safe driving practices.
The Negros Unity Riders have earned a solid reputation in the region for their humanitarian work, particularly through the NUR 615 Rescue Responder program. The group is not only a motorcycle club but also a network of trained volunteers ready to provide emergency assistance. Their members offer first aid, rescue operations, and transportation support during crises, especially in hard-to-reach areas where medical services may be scarce. Their participation in the World Day of Remembrance emphasizes their commitment to improving community welfare and reducing road-related fatalities.
Founded in 2015, NUR’s 615 Rescue Responder initiative was created to address the urgent need for immediate response during road incidents, particularly in Negros Occidental’s rural areas. With its challenging terrain, the province often experiences delays in emergency medical services, making the 615 Rescue Responder team a vital asset. Volunteers, trained in emergency medical response and rescue operations, frequently arrive first on the scene to provide life-saving interventions before more specialized medical teams take over.
This year, the NUR 615 Rescue Responder marked the World Day of Remembrance by organizing a memorial ride through Bacolod City. The procession included a brief ceremony at the Bacolod City Plaza, where riders placed flowers to honor those who had perished in road crashes. The event also featured discussions on the importance of road safety and a demonstration of the group’s rescue capabilities, showcasing the role of motorcycle riders in both emergency response and promoting a culture of safety on the roads.