MANILA — Road crash-related injuries continued to rise during the holiday season, with the Department of Health (DOH) recording 1,113 cases from Dec. 21, 2025 until 5 a.m. on Jan. 2, 2026, based on reports from its 68 sentinel hospitals.

The DOH said Friday the figure is 82 percent higher than the number of cases recorded in the same period in 2024.

Seven fatalities were documented, five of whom were motorcycle riders, the agency said.

An additional 68 cases were logged on Dec. 21 alone.

Of the total cases, 787 involved motorcycles, while 135 were linked to alcohol use. The DOH also said 965 patients were found not using safety accessories, such as helmets or seatbelts.

The agency reiterated its call for safer travel habits through its “BiyaHealthy” campaign, reminding motorists to wear Department of Trade and Industry-approved helmets, use seatbelts, and comply with road signs and speed limits to prevent crashes.

Motorists were urged to avoid driving while fatigued or intoxicated, ensure seven to eight hours of sleep before long trips, and refrain from using mobile phones while driving.

The DOH advised the public to remain vigilant as holiday travel continues and to immediately seek medical help in case of emergencies through the 1555 hotline. (PNA)