Road traffic injuries continue to be the leading cause of death among Filipinos aged 15 to 29. In response, the Department of Health (DoH) is working toward reducing road traffic fatalities by 50 percent.

"We remain committed to reducing road traffic deaths and serious injuries by 50 percent by 2028," said DoH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Saturday, 1 March.

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

From 22 December to 6 January the DoH recorded 703 road accidents, a 30.6 percent increase compared to the same period the previous year.

Many of the victims were found not using safety accessories such as seat belts or helmets.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority reveals a 39 percent increase in road traffic deaths from 7,938 in 2011 to 11,096 in 2021. Last year, the DoH estimated that 12,000 Filipinos die annually in road accidents, including pedestrians, motorcycle riders and cyclists.

To address this issue, Herbosa highlighted the DoH's intensified efforts through the Philippine Road Safety Action Plan 2023-2028.

Key initiatives include promoting active transport, expanding protected bike lanes and creating pedestrian-friendly infrastructure; enforcing stricter regulations on helmet and seatbelt use, and the anti-drunk and drugged driving act; and strengthening trauma care systems and establishing more trauma centers.