DOH reports 69 firecracker injuries by Christmas Day

The Department of Health (DOH) reported a total of 69 firecracker-related injuries by Christmas Day, with 26 new cases recorded on Thursday, December 26.

This brings the nationwide tally to 69 since December 22, half of the 52 cases reported on the same day last year across 62 sentinel hospitals monitored by the DOH.

The majority of affected individuals—amounting to 58 cases—are aged 19 years or younger, highlighting the severe impact on children during the holiday season.

Of the total cases, 74 percent were active users who lit the firecrackers themselves and 86 percent were caused by illegal fireworks such as boga.

The DOH urged the public to avoid using firecrackers and suggested safer alternatives like drums or horns for celebrations.

In case of emergencies, the public is advised to call the National Emergency Hotline at 911 or the DOH hotline at 1555.