DOH: 656 ROAD MISHAPS, FOUR DEATHS DUE TO FIRECRACKERS DURING THE HOLIDAYS

The cases of road crashes and firecrackers incidents in the country continue to rise amid the holiday season (Photo courtesy of Philippine Star)

From December 22, 2024 up to January 5, 2025, the Department of Health (DOH) had logged a total number of 656 road crashes cases which was 32.7% higher than the cases recorded during the same period last year.

The DOH said the cases of individuals who did not use safety accessories when the accidents occurred rose to 569 and 123 involved motorists who were under the influence of alcohol.

A total of 468 cases involved motorcycles or scooters. Seven people died due to these mishaps, with four of them due to motorcycle accidents.

The DOH reminded the public to avoid driving when tired or drunk, wear a helmet (for motorbikers) and use seatbelts, follow speed limits, have enough rest / sleep before driving, avoid using phones while driving, and call 911 or 1555 DOH hotlines in case of emergency.

Aside from the road accidents, the agency also recorded a total four deaths with 832 injuries due to firecrackers from December 22, 2024 to January 5, 2025. The figure is 37% higher than the 606 cases during the same period last year.

Of the 832 victims, 491 were 19 years old and below, and 685 were male. The DOH said Kwitis remained the leading cause of firecracker injuries, followed closely by 5-Star and boga which are illegal firecrackers in the country.

The DOH on Saturday also confirmed the first fatality due to a stray bullet injury amid the holiday season. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa maintained that it would be better if there would be a total ban of fireworks in the country. 

He also underscored the importance of community fireworks being done by professionals alone to reduce the number of people dying or getting hurt due to firecrackers.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer  

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