ROAD CRASH. At least two people died and 11 others were hurt when a passenger bus they were riding crashed into a concrete electric post in Orani, Bataan on Dec. 18, 2022. The Department of Health on Monday (Dec. 22, 2025) reported a significant increase in road crash injuries during the 2024–2025 holiday season due to a rise in travel activity and alcohol consumption. (Photo courtesy of the Bataan Police Provincial Office)

Holiday road crash injuries double amid increased travel, alcohol use

Published on:

Dec 23, 2025, 6:47 am

MANILA – Road crash injuries doubled during the 2024–2025 holiday period, with 11,146 patients recorded, as more Filipinos traveled and alcohol-related incidents rose during Christmas and New Year celebrations.

In an advisory Monday night, the Department of Health (DOH) said the data came from its Online National Electronic Injury Surveillance System covering patients who were brought to 210 hospitals and infirmaries for road crash injuries from December 2024 to January 2025.

The figure is nearly double the 5,785 cases recorded in October and November 2024.

Of the total, 1,173 patients were found to have consumed alcohol, reinforcing concerns about impaired driving contributing to severe crashes during the festive months.

The DOH said the sharp increase mirrors the annual trend of heavier road traffic, long-distance trips, and holiday gatherings, which together heighten risks on major thoroughfares nationwide.

Motorists are reminded to avoid drinking alcohol and to ensure adequate rest before driving, especially during long-distance travel common in the Christmas and New Year period.

The advisory was issued as part of its Ligtas Christmas 2025 campaign, which aims to reduce preventable injuries and keep hospitals from being overwhelmed during the holiday season. (PNA)