Road crash injuries recorded during the recent holiday period rose sharply compared to last year, according to the Department of Health (DOH), based on monitoring data from December 21 to December 31, 2025.

Speaking at DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo reported that as of 5:00 a.m. on December 31, a total of 943 road crash injuries were recorded nationwide, surpassing the 513 cases logged during the same period in 2024, reflecting an 84-percent increase.

Data showed that the regions with the highest number of reported cases were:

• 139 cases = Region 4A (CALABARZON)

• 115 cases = Region 7 (Central Visayas)

• 114 cases = Region 11 (Davao Region)

The DOH noted that most of those injured were male individuals aged 15 to 29 years old. A significant majority of the cases involved motorcycle riders, accounting for 69 percent of the total incidents.

Alcohol consumption was also identified as a contributing factor, with 12 percent of the reported cases involving individuals who had been drinking, equivalent to around 114 cases.

In addition, DOH data indicated that 86 percent, or 815 individuals, were not using any form of safety equipment at the time of the crash, such as helmets for motorcycle riders or seatbelts for occupants of four-wheeled vehicles.

The agency emphasized that while public attention during the holidays often focuses on firework-related injuries, road crash incidents remain a major concern, especially during periods of increased travel and celebrations.

The DOH also reminded the public to avoid driving while under the influence of alcohol, when fatigued, or lacking sleep, particularly as many travelers return home after New Year celebrations.

Authorities advised motorists to rest adequately, hydrate properly, and ensure the use of appropriate safety gear to reduce the risk of accidents during the holiday season.

“Kung nakainom kagabi, kung medyo nahihilo or puyat. Huwag na ho tayo magmaneho, magpahinga ho muna tayo at hayaan muna tayong uminom ng maraming tubig para maalis yung alcohol sa sistema natin,” Asec. Domingo said.