17 firework-related injuries so far for holidays - DOH

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) has tallied 17 cases of firework-related injuries, its first report for the yuletide revelry.

It said the 17 cases were recorded from Dec. 22 to 6 a.m. of Dec. 23, Monday, in the 62 sentinel hospitals nationwide, or medical institutions that are part of a surveillance system.

Of the number, 16 are male and one female. Sixteen were 19 years old and below.

The tally was higher compared to six cases in the same period last year.

The DOH has been recommending local government units to organize community firework displays to curb injuries, as well as the use of alternative noise makers such as drums and toy horns.

The agency also advised against children handling firecrackers.

During the 2024 New Year revelry, health officials recorded 609 firework-related injuries, the highest since the 633 cases in 2017.

There were two deaths this year.

The top five injury-causing fireworks were Kwitis, 5-star, pla-pla, luces, whistle bomb, and boga.

The DOH said people may seek help through the national emergency hotlines 911 and 1555.