World Day of Remembrance: New Song in Philippines

In honor of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, Filipino singer and composer, Monica Fernandez together with Eugene Montenero, a well-known Swiss-Italian composer, have released an original song titled “Save More Lives”. Working with Alliance member Project C.A.R.E.S. (Community Activities Reaching to Everyone through Services) Inc., the song is dedicated to road victims’ families, survivors, and safety advocates around the world. Monica Fernandez, who has also composed music for the President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, worked with Eugene Montenero, Albert Tamayo, and Arnie Mendaros on this project. Watch the video HERE:

The song formed a central feature of Project C.A.R.E.S.’ commemorations for World Day of Remembrance and aimed to raise awareness about the urgent need to reduce road deaths. It also ran a full program of events in Bacolod and Cadiz cities. The events drew in different community groups and volunteers, including those not always associated with road safety. Events included (but not limited to):

  • An opening ceremony with the Negros Occidental Singing Ambassadors and opening remarks from Zin Feevee Joie Cardinal, Anthony Altarejos, and a message of support from Jose Maria Amugod, representing the Negros Occidental Provincial Governor Eugenio “Bong” Lacson.
  • Zumba® for Life! hosted by Ching Alcala and the Ching Dance & Fitness Studio. The Zumba® was synced by 20 fitness and community groups in cities in the Philippines, and also in Thailand and the United Arab Emirates. An estimated 800 people took part.
  • “Save More Lives” was launched at the ceremony, co-hosted by Triton Paints Philippines.
  • Memorial rites held for the 14th year at the World Day of Remembrance Road Safety Tree Memorial and Park hosted by provincial government and Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOcPPO) . The event started with a peoplecade to the memorial. Road crash survivors and families of victims along with police from 32 towns and cities and students from Negros Kali International carried a wreath and streamers. A moment of silence was held. The wreath was laid and candles were lit. The event was an opportunity for municipalities to adopt and promote Project C.A.R.E.S Safe S6x Program for road safety as well as to promote #CommitToAct. 
  • A memorial mass held in Cadiz city, hosted by the city police.
  • A road safety assembly including a World Day of Remembrance commemoration, organized by Pmaj Robert Mansueto, acting Police Chief, together with the District 2 Land Transportation Office and Department of Public Works and Highways. The event was attended by more than 400 representatives from local government, the traffic and transport sectors, and academia. 
  • Blood 4+ Life blood donation pledges to increase the donation register.
  • #CommitToAct activities including events where 1000+ people signed the People’s Declaration and had photos.

Project C.A.R.E.S.’ World Day of Remembrance Commemorations were assisted by Manuel B. Felix, Asec for Peace and Order, Department of Interior Local GovernmentRead more about Project C.A.R.E.S. HERE and about the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims HERE.