ILOILO City – The Department of Health (DOH) reported 20 cases of fireworks-related injuries in Region 6 from December 21 to 26, an increase from previous figures.
Of these, four cases were treated at sentinel hospitals, while 16 were managed at non-sentinel facilities.
Most injuries involved eye trauma, blast or burn injuries without amputation, and a combination of both. Common firecrackers linked to these injuries were boga, five-star, kwitis, and triangle.
All affected individuals received medical attention and have since returned home.
No cases of fireworks ingestion or stray bullet injuries were recorded during this period.
Filipinos have long believed that loud noises drive away bad spirits and attract good fortune, especially during the New Year, thus their use of noise-making firecrackers.
Nationwide, the DOH recorded 101 FWRI cases from December 22 to 27, with 92 males and nine females affected. Among these, 82 cases (79%) involved individuals aged 19 years and below, while 19 cases were aged 20 years and older.
Additionally, 80 cases (79%) were attributed to illegal firecrackers such as boga, five-star, and piccolo.
Prohibited Firecrackers and Pyrotechnics
The DOH reminded the public of the banned firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices under Executive Order No. 28 and Republic Act No. 7183. These include Watusi, Piccolo, Five-Star (Big), Giant Bawang, Goodbye Philippines, Mother Rockets, Coke-In-Can, Poppop, Pla-Pla, Lolo Thunder, Giant Whistle Bomb, Special, Atomic Bomb, Atomic Triangle, Large-size Judas Belt, Goodbye Delima, Hello Columbia, Goodbye Napoles, Kingkong, Kwiton, Super Lolo, Goodbye Bading, Bin Laden, Pilbox, Kabasi, Tuna, and Goodbye Chismosa.
DOH Safety Advisory
DOH Region 6 urged the public to celebrate the New Year in healthier, safer, and happier ways, emphasizing alternatives to firecrackers.
“We can still enjoy the New Year celebration without compromising health and safety,” the DOH-6 stated on its Facebook page.
For its part, the DOH-Central Office highlighted the dangers associated with firecrackers:
* death in severe cases
* amputation of fingers, hands, or limbs
* blindness due to eye injuries
* hearing loss from loud explosions
* permanent lung damage from toxic substances like lead and sulfur dioxide
* poisoning from ingestion of firecracker components
* burns that may lead to scarring or permanent damage
Parents were also reminded to closely monitor children and discourage the use of boga, five-star, and piccolo, which are leading causes of fireworks-related accidents.
“Discipline and vigilance are essential to prevent firecracker injuries,” the DOH-Central Office reiterated.
Tradition
The Filipino tradition of making noise to welcome the New Year is deeply rooted in a blend of cultural beliefs, superstitions, and festive customs.
Influenced by ancient Chinese and indigenous traditions, Filipinos believe that loud noises can ward off evil spirits and bad luck. This ensures that the coming year will be free from negativity and misfortune.
Noise-making has also become a way to express excitement and happiness for the arrival of a new year. It signifies hope and positivity for what lies ahead./PN
