HOLIDAY MISHAPS: Firecracker-related injuries drop but indiscriminate firing rises

National

HEALTH authorities reported that there were lesser firecracker-related injuries as the Philippines welcomed the New Year.

A report by Department of Health (DOH) showed that from December 22 to January 1, 340 cases of firecracker injuries were reported which was a 64 percent lower compared to the same period last year.

Despite this decline, the DOH noted that additional cases could still be reported.

Among the injured, 239 were aged 19 and under, while 101 were adults.

Males accounted for the vast majority of injuries, with 299 cases compared to just 14 females.

The majority of the injuries were caused by illegal firecrackers such as "boga," "5-star," and "piccolo."

Eye injuries, burns, and amputations were the most common types of injuries reported.

Two fatalities were recorded: a 77-year-old man from Nueva Ecija who died from firecracker injuries on December 22, and a 44-year-old man from Pangasinan, who succumbed to head injuries caused by an exploding firecracker.

In Pangasinan, 84 firecracker-related injuries were reported, with 41 occurring in Central Luzon during the same period.

The region of Calabarzon reported a decrease in firecracker injuries, with 69 incidents between December 1 and January 1, down from 273 incidents in the previous year.

Authorities credited the drop to intensified campaigns against illegal firecrackers.

At the East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City, officials expect the number of injuries to surpass those of 2023, having already admitted 21 firecracker-related patients by January 1.

Meanwhile, police in Manila seized nearly P70,000 worth of illegal firecrackers, including items being used by children.

In addition to firecracker injuries, incidents of indiscriminate firearm discharges increased by 35 percent compared to last year, with 27 cases recorded nationwide.

Despite this, the overall holiday season was marked by peace, with authorities reporting a decrease in stray bullet injuries.(CMM)