The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group recorded 19,950 road accidents from January to August 2025, prompting health and safety experts to warn that the surge in traffic incidents in the Philippines has reached the level of a “vehicle crash epidemic.”

Among the deadliest incidents last year was the 1 May crash at the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway toll gate, where a passenger bus rammed several vehicles, killing 10 people — including four children — and injuring more than 30 others. Authorities said the bus driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel.

A spike in road accidents was also recorded during the 2025–2026 holiday season. Data from the Department of Health showed 1,113 road crash injuries from Dec. 21, 2025, to Jan. 2, 2026, an 82% increase compared with the same period a year earlier.

Officials attributed most accidents to human error, including reckless driving, speeding, drunk driving, and improper overtaking, which accounted for more than 87% of reported incidents.

Non-compliance with basic safety measures was also cited as a major factor, with about 87% of victims — 965 out of 1,113 — not wearing helmets or seatbelts during the holiday period. Alcohol use also remained a concern, as roughly 12% of reported injuries were linked to driving under the influence.

Amid the alarming figures, preventive efforts are being stepped up. In late January, 21 personnel from the Department of Science and Technology Central Luzon completed a free three-day training on road safety, defensive driving, and basic vehicle troubleshooting.

The course, held from 28 to 30 January, was conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Central Luzon and aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge and practical skills to operate vehicles safely and responsibly.

Designed as an eight-hour-per-day program, the training covered road safety principles, defensive driving techniques, basic vehicle maintenance, and compliance with traffic regulations. It included lectures, group activities, demonstrations, and short assessments to reinforce learning.

Officials said the initiative reflects DOST-Central Luzon’s commitment to public safety by ensuring that its drivers and field personnel are well-trained, responsible, and capable, especially in the delivery of public service.