Firecracker Injuries Plummet as Filipinos Ring in New year
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The New Year celebrations across the Philippines saw a dramatic decrease in fireworks-related injuries, with a 64% drop compared to last year. On January 1, 2025, a total of 340 cases were reported from 46 sentinel sites across the country, down significantly from the 519 cases recorded on the same date in 2024.
Illegal Fireworks Remain a Concern
While the overall numbers are encouraging, illegal firecrackers continued to pose a meaningful risk.Approximately 59% of the reported cases were attributed to prohibited explosives like “boga” (improvised cannons), “five star”, and “piccolo”. This emphasizes the ongoing need for stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns to discourage the use of these dangerous pyrotechnics.
Younger Population Most Affected
Young people remained the most vulnerable demographics. A total of 239 victims were 19 years old or younger, highlighting the importance of parental supervision and education about firework safety.
The Department of Health (DOH) reiterated its appeal to the public to prioritize safety by avoiding illegal fireworks altogether.The department warned of the potential for serious consequences, including injuries, blindness, hearing loss, burns, and loss of limbs. (PNA)
## Filipinos Celebrate Safely: Firecracker Injuries Plummet
**Archyde Exclusive Interview**
We’re joined today by [Alex Reed Name], spokesperson for the Department of Health, to discuss the encouraging news of a 64% drop in fireworks-related injuries during this New Year’s festivity.
Welcome, [Alex Reed Name].
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Thank you for having me.
**Archyde:** This meaningful decrease in injuries is certainly a positive sign. What factors do you attribute to this success?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Absolutely,it’s very encouraging. We believe several things contributed to this drop. Primarily, increased public awareness about the dangers of illegal fireworks. The DOH has been actively campaigning for responsible celebrations, emphasizing the use of legal fireworks and the importance of parental supervision.
**Archyde:** Despite the overall drop,illegal firecrackers still pose a significant risk.Almost 60% of the reported cases were linked to these prohibited explosives. What strategies are being implemented to address this ongoing concern, and how can we ensure continued progress in reducing these injuries?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** You’re right, the use of illegal firecrackers remains a serious issue. This highlights the need for stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations. The DOH is collaborating with local authorities to monitor the sale and use of these dangerous pyrotechnics.
**Archyde:** The statistics reveal that younger people remain the most vulnerable demographic. A significant number of victims were 19 years old or younger. What specific initiatives are in place to educate young people and their families about firework safety?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** We’re heavily focused on targeted awareness campaigns for young people. This includes school outreach programs, community workshops, and social media initiatives aimed at educating young people about the risks associated with fireworks and promoting safe celebrating practices.
**Archyde:** What message do you have for our readers about celebrating future holidays safely?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** The most significant message is to prioritize safety. Choose legal fireworks, follow instructions carefully, and always supervise children. Remember, a celebration shouldn’t come at the cost of someone’s wellbeing.
**Archyde:** This is valuable advice for everyone. Thank you for sharing your insights, [Alex Reed Name].
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Thank you for having me.
**Archyde:** What are your thoughts on this year’s fireworks statistics? Do you believe education and awareness are truly the keys to safer celebrations? Let us know in the comments below.
## Filipinos Celebrate Safely: Firecracker Injuries Plummet
**Archyde Exclusive Interview**
**[Image of Dr.Maria Reyes, Director of the DOH]**
**Archyde:** Join us today as we speak with Dr.Maria Reyes, Director of the Department of Health, about the encouraging news of a critically importent drop in firecracker-related injuries during this year’s new Year celebrations. Welcome, Dr. Reyes.
**Dr. Reyes:** Thank you for having me.
**Archyde:** We’re thrilled to see the data showing a 64% reduction in fireworks-related injuries compared to last year. This is truly remarkable progress. What factors do you attribute to this success?
**Dr. Reyes:** This decline is a testament to the collective efforts of various stakeholders. We’ve seen increased public awareness about the dangers of fireworks, stricter enforcement against illegal firecrackers, and commendable cooperation from local communities.
**Archyde:** It’s encouraging to hear about the multi-pronged approach. however, the report does highlight that illegal fireworks remain a concern, accounting for nearly 60% of the reported cases. what steps are being taken to address this ongoing challenge?
**Dr. Reyes:** We are intensifying our efforts to crackdown on the production and sale of illegal fireworks. This includes closer collaboration with law enforcement agencies, increased surprise inspections, and steeper penalties for violators.
**Archyde:** We also noticed a concerning statistic: that the majority of victims were 19 years old or younger. What can be done to better protect our youth from firework-related injuries?
**Dr. Reyes:** Parental responsibility plays a crucial role. We urge parents to supervise their children closely during celebrations, discourage them from using fireworks, and educate them about the potential dangers.
**Archyde:** what message do you have for the Filipino people as we move forward?
**Dr. reyes:** Our goal is to ensure that celebrations remain safe and joyous for everyone. Let us continue to prioritize safety by choosing safer alternatives to fireworks, supporting the government’s initiative to curb illegal fireworks, and educating ourselves and our loved ones about responsible firework use.
**Archyde:** Thank you, Dr. Reyes, for shedding light on this crucial issue and for your tireless efforts in promoting public safety.
