DOH: Boga firecrackers main cause of New Year injuries

Improvised cannons called "boga" have been identified as the primary cause of firecracker-related injuries during the New Year 2025 revelry, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo noted the emergence of new, more dangerous versions of "boga" that pose risks to users and bystanders.

Domingo highlighted that many children are influenced by online "Do It Yourself" videos, leading to the creation of various "boga" types.

Unlike traditional PVC pipe "boga", newer versions use materials like cans and bottles, which are more prone to exploding due to non-standard components.

In Antique province, 13 firecracker-related injuries were recorded during the holidays, with 11 attributed to "boga" and "kamara", both illegal firecrackers.

Seven individuals in Antique suffered eye and forearm injuries from "boga", while four were injured by "kamara".

Two other victims in Antique sustained injuries from whistle bombs and one from a kwitis (skyrocket).

Most victims in Antique were males, injured either by actively using or being accidentally hit by firecrackers.

A 14-year-old boy injured by "kamara" in Antique remains hospitalized, while other victims have been treated and discharged.

The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) in Antique continues to monitor cases until January 5 and advises the public, particularly parents, to warn children about unexploded firecrackers.