The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a total of 235 fireworks-related injuries nationwide since December 21, including 62 new cases recorded during the New Year’s celebrations.
The figures, gathered from 62 sentinel hospitals, revealed that 161 of the victims were aged 19 years old and below.
Most injuries were caused by unidentified types of fireworks, followed by boga and 5-star firecrackers.
Despite the numbers, the DOH noted that this year’s tally is 42 percent lower compared to last year’s 403 cases.
DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo reminded the public that more cases are expected to be reported between January 1 and 5 due to delayed submissions.
He also urged those who sustained even minor wounds to seek medical consultation to prevent tetanus, stressing that symptoms may appear days or weeks later and can be fatal if untreated.
In Manila City, hospitals recorded 106 firecracker-related injuries on New Year’s Day alone.
Most of the cases were mild, but some required serious medical attention.
Ospital ng Tondo reported the highest number with 40 patients, two of whom are scheduled for surgery, including one who suffered burns to the face.
Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center treated seven patients, including a 12-year-old child and a woman who sustained burns on her eyelids.
Another patient suffered arm injuries after being struck by a rocket firecracker.
Hospital officials emphasized that many of those injured were bystanders who were simply watching or celebrating when the incidents occurred, underscoring the risks posed even to those not directly handling fireworks.
Meanwhile, in Antipolo City, 11 people were injured after a fire broke out at a fireworks stall at the Sumulong Football Field around midnight on New Year’s Day.
According to the Bureau of Fire Protection, sparks from a malfunctioning firework ignited nearby stalls, triggering the blaze.
Around 20 stalls had been set up in the area as part of the city’s designated selling zone.
Most of the injured sustained minor wounds such as bruises, abrasions, and cuts while fleeing the fire, while one person suffered hyperventilation.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the incident.
Despite the decline in fireworks-related injuries compared to last year, health officials continue to warn the public about the dangers of firecrackers and fireworks.
The DOH reiterated its call for vigilance and reminded everyone that vaccination against tetanus is available at hospitals, serving as an important safeguard during the holiday season. (Jel Santos, Hannah Nicol)
