Philippines records 7 firecracker-related injuries ahead of Christmas, New Year's Eve

Seven firecracker-related injuries have been recorded in the Philippines for the 2025 holiday season.

According to the country's Department of Health's recent data, three new cases were recorded from Sunday (December 21) until 4am on Tuesday (December 23), adding to the existing tally of 4.

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In the Philippines, fireworks and other pyrotechnic products are widely used to celebrate New Year’s Eve. However, improper handling can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

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According to the DOH, 4 out of the 7 victims were aged 19 years old and below. Most of them were also injured due to the explosives Boga and 5-Star.

The number of injuries was 75 per cent lower than the 28 cases logged within the same timeframe in 2024, GMA News reported.

"Immediately take the victims to the hospital ... call up National Emergency Hotline 911 for emergency hotline assistance," the DOH said in its advisory.

Data released by the DOH was gathered from 62 sentinel hospitals that are being monitored for firecracker-related injuries.

The DOH is set to observe the number of firecracker-related incidents until January 5, 2026 as part of their holiday monitoring efforts.

Avoiding firecrackers is among the “bad habits” that the agency warned against in their campaign for a safer holiday season. On December 12, DOH shared that the holiday season saw an increase in holiday heart syndrome symptoms, incidents of road crashes, and firecracker-related injuries nationwide.

"During our celebrations or during the holidays, more children are exposed to fireworks and exposed to accidents, which is why we are currently focusing on the youth this Christmas," said the agency.

Meanwhile, Philippines' Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) on December 7 announced stricter monitoring of the pyrotechnic industry ahead of the holiday season, warning manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to comply with safety protocols or face penalties.

Elizabeth Gonzales

elizabeth@khaleejtimes.com

Elizabeth Gonzales is a Digital Journalist who loves writing about the expat life — and ways to make the most of it. When she's not looking for new hacks to share with readers, you may find her giving them a real laugh at one of her stand-up comic events.