The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a dramatic surge in road crash injuries during the recent holiday season, with cases nearly doubling compared to the preceding months.
Sharp Rise in Holiday Road Injuries
According to data from the DOH's Online National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (ONEISS), a total of 11,146 patients were treated for road crash injuries from December 2024 to January 2025. This figure represents a sharp increase, nearly double the 5,785 cases recorded in the two-month period of October and November 2024.
The surveillance covered patients brought to 210 participating hospitals and infirmaries across the country. The DOH issued an advisory highlighting these figures on Monday, December 22, 2025.
Alcohol Consumption a Major Factor
A significant and concerning detail from the report is the role of alcohol. The DOH found that 1,173 of the injured patients had consumed alcohol prior to their accidents. This reinforces long-standing public health warnings that drinking impairs driving ability and significantly raises the risk of serious collisions.
The health department directly linked the overall increase to annual holiday trends, including heavier road traffic, an increase in long-distance trips to provincial homes, and numerous festive gatherings. These factors combine to create heightened risks on major roads and highways nationwide.
Call for Caution and the Ligtas Christmas Campaign
In its advisory, the DOH strongly reminded motorists to avoid consuming alcohol if they plan to drive and to ensure they are well-rested before getting behind the wheel, especially for long journeys common during the Christmas and New Year break.
This warning is a core part of the department's Ligtas Christmas 2025 campaign. The initiative aims to reduce preventable injuries and deaths during the holiday season, thereby preventing hospitals and emergency rooms from becoming overwhelmed.
The recent data serves as a stark reminder for all Filipinos to prioritize safety during celebrations. Planning trips carefully, designating sober drivers, and avoiding fatigue are crucial steps to ensure the holidays remain a joyful time for everyone.
