In Bacolod City, the Department of Health in the Negros Island Region (DOH-NIR) is advocating for safer New Year celebrations as the region reports a concerning number of fireworks-related injuries. As of December 30, 2024, there have been 30 incidents, with a significant majority, 25, involving minors. This alarming statistic prompted DOH-NIR Regional Director Razel Nikka Hao to call for the use of safer alternatives during the New Year festivities.
During a press conference at the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH), Hao emphasized the importance of celebrating the new year with health and safety in mind. She encouraged the public to protect themselves and their loved ones by opting for non-explosive alternatives, ensuring a safe and promising start to 2025.
CLMMRH, designated as the sentinel hospital for the DOH-NIR’s ‘Iwas Paputok’ campaign, has already treated 10 of these cases. The hospital, led by Dr. Joan Cerrada and Dr. Feriza Mirasol, showcased its readiness to handle New Year-related emergencies during a walkthrough event.
The reported injuries include 18 cases of blasts or burns, 11 eye injuries, and one incident involving a stray bullet. The highest number of cases, 20, were recorded in Negros Occidental, with Negros Oriental and Bacolod City each reporting four cases, and Siquijor reporting two.
The most common firecrackers causing injuries were ‘triangulo’ with eight cases, followed by ‘boga’ or improvised cannons and ‘kwitis’ or mini rockets, each with five cases. Other causes included five-star firecrackers, candle bombs, sparklers, and an unknown source.
Hao highlighted the health risks associated with fireworks, such as powder ingestion, smoke inhalation, and alcohol intoxication. In response, the DOH-NIR is promoting the ‘Iwas Paputok’ campaign, which encourages communities to organize fireworks displays and use safe alternatives like horns, drums, light sticks, and other sound and light-emitting devices to celebrate the New Year safely.