MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) recorded 703 road accidents in 15 days, including the 47 new cases it logged during its latest 24-hour monitoring.
In a report, the DOH said the total number of road accidents was documented from December 22, 2024, to the early morning of January 6, 2025 – 30.6 percent higher than the sum listed in the same period previously.
The 47 fresh road accidents were registered from 6 a.m. on Sunday, January 5, to 6 a.m. on Monday, it added.
The same DOH report noted that 603 road accident victims were found to have not used safety vehicle accessories while driving. It likewise showed that 497 cases were motorcycle accidents while 127 of the road accident victims were under the influence of alcohol.
The DOH also reported that the number of people who died due to road accidents since December 22, 2024, increased from seven to eight. The death toll included five people who figured in motorcycle accidents.
The rising cases of road accidents prompted the DOH to repeat its call on the public to take extra precaution during travels.
It urged motorists anew to avoid driving when tired or drunk, follow speed limits, ensure seven to eight hours of sleep before driving, and avoid using phones while driving.
The DOH asked motorcycle users to wear helmets and car passengers to use seat belts while on journey.
It likewise said that the public must immediately call 911 or 1555 DOH hotlines in case of emergency. (Faith Argosino © Philippine Daily Inquirer)
