The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday reported a significant 42% decline in fireworks-related injuries during the recent New Year celebrations, though officials noted that the severity of some injuries remains a concern.
Data from 62 sentinel hospitals nationwide recorded 235 cases from Dec. 21, 2025, to 4:00 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2026. This is a sharp decrease from the 403 cases documented during the same period the previous year.
Of the total injuries, 62 occurred during the peak of the New Year’s Eve revelry.
Health officials highlighted a troubling trend: while the total number of incidents has fallen, many victims suffered more serious injuries, including blast wounds and eye damage.
Minors continue to be the most affected group, accounting for 161 of the victims, or approximately 69% of the total.
“Even as we see a lower count today, the DOH anticipates that late reports will continue to come in until January 5,” said DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo.
The primary causes of the injuries were identified as “unknown” or illegal fireworks, specifically boga (improvised PVC cannons) and the 5-Star firecracker.
Other reported causes included kwitis, whistle bombs, and lantaka.
The DOH urged all individuals who sustained even minor wounds or “scratches” from fireworks to seek immediate medical consultation at the nearest hospital.
Health experts warned that symptoms of tetanus can take up to 21 days to appear and can be fatal if not treated with post-exposure vaccinations.
Government hospitals remain under “code white alert,” ensuring that medical personnel are ready to handle any further surge in patients as late reports are consolidated.
Officials credited the overall decline in cases to stricter local ordinances and the increasing use of community fireworks displays.