The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday reported a significant 42 percent decrease in firework-related injuries during the 2026 New Year celebrations compared to the previous year.
According to a DOH statement, a total of 235 cases were recorded from December 21, 2025, through 4 a.m. on January 1, 2026. This figure is a sharp decline from the 403 injuries documented during the same period in 2025.
Of the total cases, 62 injuries were recorded on New Year’s Day alone.
While the health department welcomed the lower numbers, officials noted that they expect the figure to fluctuate slightly as late reports from hospitals continue to arrive.
Monitoring will officially end on January 5.
Young Victims and Illegal Fireworks
Data from 62 sentinel hospitals nationwide revealed that minors remain the most vulnerable group, with individuals aged 19 and below accounting for 69 percent (161 victims) of the total injuries.
Health officials identified “boga” (improvised PVC cannons) and “five-star” as the leading causes of the blasts.
At the East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City, medical staff treated nine injuries between midnight and Thursday morning, including facial burns and eye trauma caused by “lusis” and fountains.
Tetanus Warning and Air Quality Concerns
The DOH reminded the public to seek immediate medical attention for any injury, regardless of severity, to prevent tetanus.
“Symptoms do not appear until around eight days, and sometimes up to 21 days later,” the DOH warned. “They can be deadly.”
Beyond physical injuries, the post-revelry period saw a spike in environmental hazards.
Data from Breathe Metro Manila indicated that air quality in the capital region reached “very unhealthy” and even “hazardous” levels due to heavy smoke.
Health experts advised residents with respiratory conditions to remain indoors or wear masks until the smog clears.