The number of fireworks-related injuries reported after Christmas dropped by 49 percent compared with the same period in 2024, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

From 21 to 26 December, the DOH recorded a total of 57 cases of fireworks-related injuries.

The National Capital Region logged the highest number of cases, with 25.

Most of the reported cases involved individuals aged 19 and below, with males aged 10 to 14 years old being the most affected.

The DOH said most firecracker-related injuries involved 5-Star, kwitis, boga (PVC pipe cannon), and triangulo.

"Pinapaalala po lagi ng DOH, ang ating mga kabataan ay hindi dapat humahawak ng paputok (The DOH reminds us that young people should not handle firecrackers)," DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said.

"Lalo na po yung mga nakainom, wag pong pasindihin. Mas maganda po ang community fireworks kung saan sabay-sabay tayong nanonood at mga professional ang nagsisindi (Especially those who have been drinking, don't let them light them. Community fireworks are better where we just watch together and professionals handle them)," Domingo added.

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