MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) has reported 16 new cases of injuries related to fireworks, bringing the total to 28 cases just six days before the New Year festivities.
As of 6 a.m. on Monday, DOH data revealed that among the new cases was an eye injury suffered by a passive onlooker at a designated area. The age range of those affected spans from 6 to 35 years, with only one female among them.
Approximately 94 percent of incidents occurred either at home or on the streets, with 31 percent concentrated in the National Capital Region, according to the DOH.
Out of the reported incidents, seven cases, or 44 percent, involved legal firecrackers.
The current overall count is 28 cases, with 10 of them classified as passive involvement. The use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices is regulated by Republic Act 7183 and Executive Order 28, issued in 2017.
The DOH emphasized that fireworks, whether used at home or in designated areas, pose risks even to those not directly involved in lighting them. It is recommended that professionals handle community fireworks displays, ensuring spectators are at a safe distance.
(IAmigo/MNM)