The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday, 23 December, logged three new cases of firecracker-related injuries, bringing the total to seven.

This is 75 percent lower compared to the same period last year. Meanwhile, of the figure, four cases were 19 years old below, or 57 percent.

Most firecracker-related injuries involved 5-Star and boga (PVC) pipe canon.

DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa earlier urged the public to avoid using firecrackers and instead join community fireworks hosted by local government units.

He also advised firecracker-related victims to go straight to the hospitals and have themselves checked immediately.

The public is reminded that the National Emergency hotline can be reached at 911, while the DOH hotline is 1555 for any assistance.