Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The Department of Health (DOH) reported a sharp rise in road crash injuries during the 2025 holiday season, recording an 82 percent increase from the same period in 2024.
Data from 10 sentinel hospitals showed a total of 1,113 road injury cases from December 21, 2025 to January 2, 2026 at 5 a.m.
Motorcycle riders accounted for the bulk of incidents, with 787 cases or 71 percent of the total, the DOH said.
Authorities noted that most accidents—965 cases—were linked to not using safety gear like helmets and seatbelts, while 135 were related to drunk driving.
Seven fatalities were reported, including two pedestrians and five motorcycle riders or passengers.
The DOH reiterated safety measures to prevent accidents, urging the public to wear approved helmets and seatbelts, follow speed limits, and avoid driving tired or under the influence.
Officials also advised drivers to get adequate sleep and refrain from using mobile phones while on the road to ensure safer travel during the holidays.