MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded 1,091 road crash injuries nationwide over a four‑day period during the Holy Week travel rush, the agency announced on Sunday.
The tally, reported by 161 hospitals from March 29 (Palm Sunday) to April 2 (Maundy Thursday), reflects a significant increase compared with the same period last year. DOH officials said the spike is partly due to more hospitals submitting full reports under the agency’s surveillance system.
Undersecretary Albert Domingo reminded the public that the figure “does not necessarily mean more crashes have occurred,” but that improved reporting gives a clearer picture of the road safety situation during peak travel days.
Regions with the highest number of reported injuries included Central Luzon, Davao Region, and the Ilocos Region, while motorcycle riders accounted for a large share of the victims, according to additional reporting from national news agencies.
DOH also noted that a high number of those injured were not using helmets or other safety gear, and some incidents involved alcohol use — underscoring ongoing concerns about risky road behaviors.
The DOH’s Code White emergency alert was in effect at participating hospitals throughout much of the Easter break to ensure readiness for accident victims and other urgent cases.
The agency continues to urge motorists and passengers to observe traffic rules, wear protective gear, and avoid driving under the influence as Filipinos begin their return trip following the long holiday weekend.