Ray Adrian Macalalag, the Lead for Communications of the IRF Young Professionals Programme, has been selected as one of the 10 members of the Youth Leadership Board of the Global Youth Coalition for Road Safety.

The Youth Leadership Board, often referred to as the “engines behind the coalition,” is a diverse group expected to bring their expertise, advice, and actions in alignment with both local and global advocacy strategies.

Macalalag joins a distinguished group of young leaders from Belgium, India, Indonesia, Peru, South Africa, Tajikistan, Uganda, and the United States.

“I believe that road safety is interlinked with several factors, not just the quality or safety of infrastructure. It also lies with the policies we put in place and how we implement them,” said Macalalag.

Having kicked off his career at the Philippines’ Department of Public Works and Highways before joining the country’s premier think tank, the National Economic and Development Authority, Macalalag has a deep understanding of these issues.

“We also need to think about how we can save lives as road crashes are the top cause of death among young people. Their dreams and aspirations also die with them; and definitely, young people are the continuous supply of hope for our country,” he stressed.

Macalalag will serve a two-year term on the board, during which he is expected to identify and express the views and needs of youth, support the strategic planning process of the coalition, help organize global and local activities, and promote and expand the coalition.

Currently, Macalalag is in Australia studying for a Master of Transport at the University of Sydney under the Australia Awards Scholarship, bringing a holistic perspective to road safety that considers factors beyond infrastructure.