DOH vows to cut road traffic fatalities by half

Road traffic injuries remain the leading cause of death among Filipinos aged 15 to 29, that is why the Department of Health (DOH) is eyeing to cut road traffic fatalities by 50 percent.

"We remain committed to reducing road traffic deaths and serious injuries by 50 percent by 2028," DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa.

"Ensuring that every road user — whether a pedestrian, cyclist, or motorist — can travel safely. Every life is precious. We commit to life," Herbosa added.

From 22 December 2024 to 6 January, the DOH has logged 703 road accident — 30.6 percent higher than the total listed in the same period previously.

Most road accident victims were found to have not used safety vehicle accessories while driving.

Meanwhile, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority indicate that road traffic deaths increased by 39 percent from 7,938 in 2011 to 11,096 in 2021.

Last year, the DOH estimates that 12,000 Filipinos die every year due to road accidents, pedestrians who are hit while crossing the street, as well as those who use motorcycles and bicycle riders.

To address this, Herbosa said the DOH is intensifying efforts through the Philippine Road Safety Action Plan 2023-2028 through: Promoting active transport and expanding protected bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure; implementing stricter enforcement of the helmet use, seatbelt use, and anti-drunk and drugged driving act; and strengthening trauma care systems and establishing more trauma centers.