DOH: Holiday road crash injuries reach 414

The number of those who were hurt due to road crashes during the holiday season is now at 414, the Department of Health (DOH) reported on Monday, 29 December.

Of the figure, 343 were not wearing proper road safety accessories such as helmets or seatbelts; 305 were in motorcycle crashes, and 58 were under the influence of alcohol.

Meanwhile, all four who died were motorcycle riders.

The data, however, is five percent lower compared to the same period in 2024.

Most affected were males aged 15 to 29. Top regions with the most road crashes are Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, and Ilocos Region.

To prevent road crashes, the DOH advised the public to wear a Department of Trade and Industry-approved helmet for motorcycle riders and a seatbelt for those driving a four-wheel vehicle.

"It is very important to use Department of Trade and Industry-approved helmets for two-wheel riders and wear seatbelts for drivers and passengers of four-wheel vehicles," DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said.

Domingo also reminded drivers to avoid driving when drunk.

"It is also important not to consume any alcoholic beverage when driving even if you are just going somewhere near. Alcohol, whether in small amounts, destroys our judgment on the road," he added.