Child helmet law victory at last in Philippines

On 19 May 2017, a new law in the Philippines prohibiting children from traveling on motorcycles without wearing a helmet finally came into force. It had been almost two years since President Benigno Aquino III signed the law, so this day has been long awaited. In a recent study in hospitals in the Philippines, only 4% of injured motorcycle riders were wearing a helmet. Children have a higher probability of suffering serious injury than adults because their brains and skulls have not reached maturity, making them more vulnerable. The new law therefore has huge potential to save lives.

Alliance member Safe Kids Worldwide Philippines has been in the forefront of the push for mandatory helmet use for children since 2014. Their action has been led by Amy Rolloque, Program Officer and a 2016 Alliance Advocate, and Jesus de la Fuente, Executive Director. They and their team have advocated tirelessly, advising the national Senate on the bill and constantly following up with the Land Transport Office and Department of Transport to ensure implementation of the law. They have also taken practical action, distributing 900 children’s helmets since last August. The enactment of the law is a huge success, and we congratulate Safe Kids Worldwide Philippines on their role in ensuring that every child wears a helmet. Read more

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