The Department of Health (DOH) reported that 141 individuals sustained firecracker-related injuries during New Year’s Eve celebrations, many of which involved the use of illegal fireworks.
This brought the total number of cases recorded from December 22, 2024, to January 1, 2025, to 340—a 34% decrease from the 519 cases documented during the same period last year.
Of the total, 141 injuries occurred between 6 a.m. on December 31, 2024, and 5:59 a.m. on January 1, 2025, marking a 64% drop compared to the same timeframe in 2024. An additional 11 cases were reported late, contributing to the tally.
Illegal fireworks dominate incidents
Illegal firecrackers, such as Boga, 5-Star, and Piccolo, accounted for 59% (202 cases) of injuries. Over half of the victims (54.7% or 186 cases) were actively using fireworks when the accidents occurred.
A significant portion of the victims (239 cases) were aged 19 and below, with males comprising the majority of cases (299 individuals).
Hospital reports
- Tondo Medical Center: Recorded 24 firecracker-related injuries since December 21, with a surge of cases admitted around midnight during the New Year festivities.
- Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center: Logged 83 cases since December 21, 30 of which involved unspecified fireworks.
DOH safety reminders
The DOH urged the public to handle fireworks responsibly and emphasized avoiding unexploded devices. Their recommendations include:
- Unexploded Fireworks: Do not pick them up; pour water over them instead.
- Cleaning Up: Ensure surroundings are cleared after the festivities.
First aid guidelines
For wounds
- Do not ignore even minor injuries.
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Cover it with sterilized gauze, bandage, or a clean cloth.
- Apply pressure to stop bleeding.
For eye injuries
- Flush the eye with clean, warm water—avoid using cold water.
- Do not rub or scratch the affected area.
- Cover the eye with a clean cloth or gauze.
- Seek immediate medical attention and get a tetanus shot.
If a firecracker is swallowed
- Do not force vomiting.
- Administer raw egg whites: 6–8 for children and 8–12 for adults.
Emergency response
The DOH advised anyone injured by firecrackers to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health center or contact emergency hotlines:
- 911 (National Emergency Hotline)
- 1555 (DOH Emergency Hotline)
The department continues to appeal to the public for safer celebrations, aiming to reduce injuries further in the coming years.