Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) – The Department of Health (DOH) said there were more firecracker-related injuries this year compared to last year, and victims were getting younger.
From December 21 to January 5, the agency recorded 929 firecracker-related injuries and one death, DOH Secretary Janet Garin said on Wednesday (January 6). This is eight percent higher compared to the same period last year.
Of these cases, 33 needed amputations.
More than 500 victims were aged 14 and below.
Like in previous years, the illegal firecracker “piccolo” caused most of the injuries.
Garin said the DOH is still investigating the cause of death of a 12-year-old boy from Laguna who showed symptoms of tetanus.
He was said to have a minor wound due to “piccolo,” but did not seek medical attention immediately. He died in the hospital on January 5.
Garin urged the implementation of a nationwide total firecracker ban to avoid more injuries and deaths in the coming years.
“Hindi ibig sabihin walang firecrackers walang kasiyahan.”
[Translation: “When there are no firecrackers, it does not mean there will be no more celebration.”]
“It should really be banned. It costs not just limbs but lives,” Garin said.
