A combination of poor-quality roads and reckless drivers have made motoring in Eastern Visayas more perilous.
Recently, the Department of Health in Eastern Visayas (DOH-8) has raised the alarm on the sudden spike of traffic-related injuries during the first two months of 2026 alone.
The agency has reported 939 road traffic injuries and two deaths from January to February of this year, local officials told media.
Almost 90 percent of these accidents involve motorcycle riders, according to Roderick Boyd Cerro, DOH-8 regional epidemiology and surveillance unit manager.
"At least three out of 10 drivers were under the influence of alcohol, while some experienced road crashes due to crossing stray dogs,” Cerro added.
Several sectors have also pointed out the danger posed by potholes and cracked roads, particularly along the Maharlika Highway in the island of Samar.
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.
(With report from PNA)
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