The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has released its latest report on mortality in the country, revealing that heart disease continues to be the nation's deadliest health threat. Based on provisional data covering the period from January to June 2025, the figures show a consistent and concerning pattern from the previous year.
Top Causes of Mortality: A Consistent Ranking
According to the PSA's temporary data, which was compiled as of October 31, 2025, the rankings for the top three causes of death in the first half of the year have remained unchanged from the same period in 2024. This stability highlights persistent public health challenges that require continued attention and intervention.
Ischaemic heart disease, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the heart, claimed the top spot. It was responsible for a staggering 53,985 deaths, representing 19.9 percent of all recorded deaths nationwide during that six-month window.
Cancer and Stroke Follow as Major Killers
In second place were neoplasms, which include various forms of cancer and tumors. These accounted for 30,961 cases, or 11.4 percent of the total mortality figure.
Close behind in third were cerebrovascular diseases, such as stroke, which affected the brain's blood vessels. These diseases resulted in 27,164 recorded deaths, making up 10.0 percent of all deaths from January to June 2025.
Other Prevalent Diseases in the National Profile
The PSA data also outlined other significant contributors to the country's mortality rate. Pneumonia secured the fourth position, with 18,365 cases accounting for 6.8 percent of deaths.
Diabetes mellitus followed in fifth place, linked to 16,632 fatalities or 6.1 percent of the overall total. The release of this provisional data provides crucial insights for healthcare policymakers and the public, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts in prevention, early detection, and management of these chronic and infectious diseases.
