By Sarwell Meniano
PALO, Leyte – The Department of Health in Eastern Visayas (DOH-8) has reported 939 road traffic injuries and two deaths in the first two months of 2026, prompting the agency to call for stronger measures to address the problem.
Roderick Boyd Cerro, DOH-8 regional epidemiology and surveillance unit manager, said that with the reporting mechanism in place, they expect more reports of road traffic injuries in the coming months.
“Almost 90 percent of these accidents involve motorcycles. At least three out of 10 drivers were under the influence of alcohol, while some experienced road crashes due to crossing stray dogs,” Cerro told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.
Last year, the region recorded 3,373 road traffic injuries, including 22 deaths. Health facilities started regular reporting on road crash victims seeking treatment in December 2024 during the Yuletide season.
“We have been providing this data to the police and local government units to help prevent road crashes. The government is also strengthening our advocacy and enforcement of road traffic laws,” Cerro said.
Cerro said DOH’s road safety campaign focuses on public health education, trauma care, and health advocacy.
The agency’s concern is not only on road safety laws and enforcement but also on addressing the root causes of road traffic accidents from a health perspective, including behavioral, environmental, and systemic factors, according to the official.
The World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 reveals that road traffic crashes remain a significant global issue, with more than two deaths per minute and over 3,200 per day. (PNA)
