DOH reports 28 firecracker injuries this Christmas
SHOPPERS browse firecrackers in Divisoria, Manila, on 23 December 2025, as New Year celebrations draw near. Vendors say the cheapest item, the lusis, sells for P50, while fountain-type firecrackers can cost up to P4,000.
John Carlo Magallon
The Department of Health (DOH) reported 28 firecracker-related injuries recorded from 21 December until 4:00 a.m. of 25 December 2025.
Of the total cases, 19 involved individuals aged 19 and below, while the rest were 20 years old and above, based on data from 62 sentinel hospitals monitored by the health agency.
Most of the injuries were caused by “5-star,” “boga,” and “triangle” firecrackers, all of which are prohibited under Philippine National Police regulations.
Despite the increase, the DOH noted that this year’s figure is 50 percent lower than the number of cases recorded during the same period in 2024.
The health agency reminded the public to avoid using firecrackers and advised that victims of firecracker-related accidents should be brought immediately to hospitals for medical treatment.
The DOH also urged the public to contact the National Emergency Hotline 911 for emergency medical assistance.