The Philippines continues to rank among the highest in Asia—and even the world—when it comes to road crash injuries and fatalities. Many of these incidents are entirely preventable when drivers and motorcyclists practice defensive driving, obey traffic rules, and observe basic road courtesy.

Unfortunately, risky behaviors on the part of motorists often worsen the consequences of accidents. Failing to wear a seat belt or a motorcycle-specific helmet, or driving while intoxicated, can dramatically increase the severity of injuries in a crash.

To hold these kamote (reckless) drivers and riders accountable, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa announced that if they are involved in road crashes, they will no longer be covered by the government’s zero hospital balance bill policy, sending a clear message that traffic violations carry real consequences.

“Today, I’m announcing that if you are admitted [in a DOH hospital] because you are not wearing a helmet, you are not wearing a seatbelt, you’re drinking — you are now disqualified from the zero balance bill,” said Herbosa.

The DOH Secretary also clarified that the government’s zero hospital balance policy will still cover patients admitted for road crash-related injuries, provided they were not at fault in the incident. As long as such patients are brought to a DOH hospital, their hospitalization and medical expenses will continue to be fully covered, ensuring that innocent victims are not penalized for circumstances beyond their control.