DOH: 1 dead, 125 injured by fireworks nationwide

The Department of Health (DOH) has reported one death and 125 injuries nationwide related to fireworks as of December 28.

The fatality was a 78-year-old man from Central Luzon who died on December 27 from infection and complications after igniting an illegal 'Judas belt' firecracker on December 22.

This victim is the first recorded firecracker casualty ahead of the New Year 2025 celebrations.

DOH spokesperson Albert Domingo stated, 'Fireworks, even if legal, are dangerous. They are bombs. They explode. They can kill. Avoid fireworks for the sake of our lives.'

Of the 125 injured, 102 victims are minors, with 91 cases attributed to the use of illegal firecrackers.

The DOH noted that the current number of injuries is 29 percent higher compared to the same period last year.

Several cases of amputation have occurred among the injured, primarily affecting hands and eyes.