Western Visayas welcomed the holidays with far fewer emergency room visits, as fireworks-related injuries dropped sharply this season, signaling a growing shift toward safer celebrations.
The Department of Health (DOH-6) recorded only 14 fireworks-related injury (FWRI) cases from December 21, 2025 to January 1, 2026—a 78 percent decrease compared with the same period last year.
The dramatic decline, according to the agency, reflects sustained safety campaigns and heightened public awareness, though they cautioned that the danger has not disappeared.
“Fireworks injuries still happened, and they involved both children and adults,” the DOH-6 noted, stressing that no age group is immune to firework-related accidents.
Data from DOH-monitored sentinel hospitals showed that ‘boga’ remained the most dangerous culprit, responsible for five cases. It was followed by kwitis with two reported injuries, while single cases were linked to triangle, whistle bomb, baby rocket, sky rocket, and one unidentified firework.
Most patients were fortunate. Thirteen of those injured were treated and discharged, while one remains confined in a medical facility.
The DOH-6 said the downward trend proves that consistent information drives and community cooperation are paying off—but emphasized that zero injury remains the ultimate goal.
As festivities continue beyond the New Year, health authorities renewed their call for the public to avoid lighting fireworks, choose organized community displays, and turn to safer alternatives for noise and light.
Immediate medical attention is also urged for any fireworks-related accident, no matter how minor it may seem.
“Sa Bagong Pilipinas, bawat buhay ay mahalaga,” the DOH-6 said, underscoring that no tradition is worth risking a life.IMT
