MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday urged local government units (LGUs) to make sure that traffic violators are arrested following the death of Renz Jayson Perez, a nurse who was killed in a hit-and-run incident in Manila.
“We call on LGUs to ensure that traffic and law enforcement proactively ensure the safety of all road users — especially those using light mobility, and that violators are apprehended immediately,” read the DOH’s statement posted on Facebook.
Last Aug. 23, Perez was riding his bicycle near the corner of Padre Burgos and Maria Orosa Streets when he was hit by a black pickup truck. The vehicle then fled towards Delpan Bridge after the accident.
DOH reiterated its call on putting up protected bike lanes as public transport is limited during the coronavirus quarantine.
“We reiterate our call for the local government units to roll out protected bike lanes as soon as possible. Given the current limitations on public transport, cycling and other forms of active transport remain some of the most effective ways to travel while observing physical distancing and maintaining open ventilation — both key in mitigating the spread of COVID-19,” the health department said.
The Department of Transportation previously proposed the establishment of bike lanes near major hospitals in Quezon City and Manila which is part of its Metro Manila bike lane network project.
The health department also mourned the death of Perez, reiterating its call to protect medical frontline workers.
“The Department of Health joins in mourning the death of Mr. Perez who served his patients bravely and with love, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones,” DOH said.
“Mr. Perez’s untimely death only serves to amplify calls to protect frontliners, most especially our healthcare workers, during the COVID-19 pandemic,” it added.