In a proactive move to promote road safety awareness among children, NLEX Corporation has unveiled a captivating picture book titled “Ang Bida ng Kalsada” at the National Library of the Philippines. This initiative aims to educate young minds about responsible road usage through engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations.
J. Luigi L. Bautista, president and general manager of NLEX Corporation, emphasized the significance of the picture book in aligning with UNICEF’s call to action for safeguarding children on the road. He stated, “The ‘Ang Bida ng Kalsada Picture Book’ is our modest contribution and response to UNICEF’s call to action to protect our children who use the road as pedestrians, as passengers, and as responsible members of the community.”
The book features the journey of Danny and Dexter, two main characters, and is packed with invaluable road safety lessons presented in both Filipino and English. It aims to help children grasp the importance of road safety by contextualizing various traffic rules and regulations within a relatable narrative. As part of its distribution plan, NLEX will provide copies of the book to Grades 3-6 public school students in 20 schools located within NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector’s host communities.
Director Marilyn Siao of DepEd’s Bureau of Learning and Delivery expressed her gratitude towards NLEX for not only imparting safe road practices but also instilling good values through the picture book. She commended the initiative, highlighting how it encourages children to become responsible pedestrians, conscientious passengers, and active community members.
The launch of “Ang Bida ng Kalsada” is a testament to NLEX’s commitment to UNICEF’s Child Road Safety Program under the United Nations’ Second Decade of Action for Road Safety. As part of this initiative, NLEX has pledged support to assist 100 schools in identified high-risk areas, aiming to contribute to the reduction of road accidents.
Dr. Angel Umali, UNICEF Philippines’s Health and Nutrition Officer, lauded NLEX for its dedication to the advocacy and urged the company to continue organizing programs that enhance children’s welfare. She stressed the importance of prioritizing the safety of children on the roads, emphasizing that making roads safe for children ensures safety for everyone.
Beyond the “Ang Bida ng Kalsada” project, NLEX has been actively promoting road safety through various initiatives such as Kaligtasan sa Daan (KalSaDa), Biyahero Road Safety Caravan, and Usapang Drayber. Additionally, NLEX recently inaugurated a Road Traffic Safety Hub and Park in Mabalacat, Pampanga, providing an educational platform for stakeholders, including children, to learn about safe road practices.
With the successful launch of the ‘Ang Bida ng Kalsada’ picture book and the establishment of the RTS Hub and park, NLEX reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with organizations and government agencies to develop programs that benefit young road users.
NLEX Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), remains steadfast in its pursuit of promoting road safety and ensuring the well-being of the community.
