The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded 534 firecracker-related injuries as of Jan. 2, following New Year’s Eve celebrations, with numbers expected to rise in the coming days. Despite a 98% drop compared to the same period last year, the agency remains alarmed by the widespread injuries and calls for urgent reforms.
The incidents, reported by 62 sentinel hospitals, show that 322 victims were aged 19 and below, while 212 were 20 years or older. Males made up 443 of the injured, with the remaining 91 being females. Popular firecrackers like kwitis, boga, and five-star were the primary culprits, according to the DOH.
Health officials advocate firecracker ban
DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa reiterated the importance of prevention, emphasizing that firecracker-related injuries and deaths are entirely avoidable. The department is pushing for a total ban on personal use of firecrackers, advocating instead for organized community displays managed by professionals. Additionally, proposals to prohibit children from using firecrackers are gaining traction.
Victims are urged to seek immediate medical attention for firecracker injuries, including tetanus shots, and avoid self-treatment. The DOH continues to monitor cases through Jan. 6, as more injuries may surface.
Rising firearm discharges and stray bullet cases
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported 30 cases of indiscriminate firearm discharges during the holidays, resulting in the arrest of 24 individuals, including members of the military and law enforcement. Seventeen firearms were confiscated, while seven suspects remain at large.
The PNP also documented 14 stray bullet incidents, injuring eight people, with Metro Manila and Zamboanga Peninsula reporting the highest numbers. Two additional firecracker-related deaths were confirmed, bringing the nationwide toll to three, including a case in Ilocos and another in Central Visayas.
Regional breakdown of firecracker-related injuries
Abra province reported the highest number of firecracker injuries in the Cordillera Administrative Region, with eight cases. Nationwide, Pangasinan recorded 101 injuries, while Quezon province tallied 20. These figures, though lower than last year, underline the ongoing risks posed by firecrackers.
Authorities confiscated over 600,000 illegal firecrackers valued at ₱4.04 million, arresting 83 individuals for violations. The DOH and PNP continue to urge stricter regulations to prevent further injuries and fatalities during future celebrations.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.