Road crash injuries overtook fireworks-related cases during the 2026 New Year celebrations, reaching 1,384 as of January 5. This marks more than a doubling from 690 cases in 2025, according to the Department of Health. Most victims were young people who failed to wear helmets or seatbelts.
The Department of Health recorded 1,384 road crash injuries during the New Year period starting December 21, 2025, a 101% rise from the previous year's 690 cases. Nearly half of those affected were aged 15 to 29. The report highlighted that 85% of incidents involved motorists and passengers without helmets or seatbelts, with 989 cases stemming from motorcycle accidents. Additionally, 171 injuries were linked to alcohol influence.
Ten fatalities were reported, including seven helmetless motorcyclists and three pedestrians. The peak occurrences were on New Year’s Eve, followed by December 22 and Christmas Day. A five-year review indicates this festive period saw the highest injury numbers to date.
"The data show high variability with multiple peaks, reflecting how road traffic injuries are strongly influenced by holiday travel, social activities and weather conditions," the agency's report stated. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa announced at a press conference that the DOH will prioritize reducing road crashes as a public health concern, particularly since fireworks injuries declined from last year.
