On January 2, 2025, recent reports revealed that just nine new cases of firework-related injuries were recorded in Eastern Visayas.
With this latest count, the total number of such incidents in the region stands at 32, primarily with victims from Leyte province.
The number of cases increased by 33% compared to the 24 cases recorded last year.
Most of the reported victims are males aged between 11 to 20 years old. Among the total cases, 27 (85%) experienced minor injuries and burns to the hands and other parts of the body.
There were three cases involving eye injuries, as well as two cases where victims suffered finger amputations.
These unfortunate incidents were attributed to the use of various firecrackers, including kwitis, lantaka, whistle bombs, fountains, five stars, sparklers, pla-pla, and piccolo.
Meanwhile, the holiday season has seen a staggering 558 additional injuries attributed to various causes.
Of this number, 415 injuries stemmed from vehicular accidents, while 146 were due to incidents such as falls, burns, violence, cuts from sharp objects, drowning, and animal bites.
The majority of injury victims are also predominantly male and hail from Leyte province. Among all reported cases, 358 individuals were treated at hospitals, discharged soon after, and 32 needed to be referred to higher-level facilities for additional treatment.
Twenty-two victims declined hospital admission, and 133 individuals remain in hospitals for ongoing treatment.
Furthermore, the region recorded 13 fatalities related to these incidents. In a separate health report, 237 cases of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) were also documented in Eastern Visayas, including acute stroke, acute coronary syndrome, and bronchial asthma.
As we embark on this New Year, the Department of Health has reiterated its call for safe and joyful celebrations among families.
Health officials urged everyone to prepare nutritious meals, engage in regular exercise, and practice self-discipline.
Alcohol consumption should be avoided, especially when driving, and the use of firecrackers should be shunned in favor of safer alternatives to ensure the safety of families and communities.
Together, let's promote a prosperous and safe New Year through collective actions and vigilance. “Safe Christmas, Happy Family, Complete and Secure!”
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