DOH-Region 1 health officials and city government officers led by Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco and Mayor Belen T. Fernandez led the ceremonial blowing of trumpet or “torotot” during the kick-off activity for the “Iwas Paputok 2023” held at the city plaza in Dagupan City on December 14, 2023. 

MANILA — In collaboration with the City Government of Dagupan, the Department of Health (DOH)-Ilocos Region launched the “Safe Christmas for a Healthy Philippines” and “Avoid Firecrackers”  campaigns at the Dagupan City Plaza.

The initiative aims to promote a health-conscious and active lifestyle during the festive season, with a specific focus on preventing fireworks-related injuries and accidents during New Year celebrations.

Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco strongly urged residents to partake in healthy activities throughout the holidays.

“While indulging in delectable dishes like lechon, ham, and more is inevitable during Christmas and New Year, we must also make healthier choices to guard against chronic non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.”

She emphasized the importance of food moderation, encouraging the public to consume a variety of foods while minimizing salt, sugar, and saturated fats.

“Remember that excess is detrimental to our health,” she reminded townfolks.

To ensure a safe and healthy holiday season, DOH encourages the public to adopt healthy habits such as “Avoid Firecrackers,” “Healthy Feasting,” and “Safe Celebrations.”

Sydiongco also advised finding alternative ways to create festive sounds.

“Health and safety take precedence when welcoming the New Year. The best way to celebrate is with family, spending quality time at home and planning for the upcoming year together.”

The “Avoid Firecrackers” campaign was initiated in Pangasinan, which recorded the highest number of victims during the previous year’s festivities, totaling 74 fireworks-related injuries (FWRI).

La Union followed with 16, Ilocos Sur with 7, and Ilocos Norte with 3, resulting in a total of 100 FWRI for 2022-2023.

Data from the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) revealed that the most affected age group is children aged 5 to 9 years old, with blast and burn injuries and eye injuries being prevalent.

In the previous year (2021-2022), 67 FWRI cases were recorded, with Pangasinan leading with 40, La Union with 11, and Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur both with 8 casualties each. The most affected age group was 10 to 14 years old.

“Kwitis” or skyrockets emerged as a major cause of injury, propelling from 40–50 feet before exploding. Despite being legal, it poses a significant danger, especially in untrained hands.

Sydiongco advised, “If using fireworks cannot be avoided due to tradition, entrust their use and ignition to adults. Do not instruct or leave them with children to keep them safe from accidents.”

“Let’s welcome Christmas and the New Year safely, keeping our children away from fireworks,” Sydiongco concluded.

(ai/mnm)