By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) recorded 13 firework-related injuries from Dec. 21 to 27, 2024, underscoring the need for heightened safety awareness as the New Year approaches.
Of the victims, 10 (77%) were children aged 1 to 10 years old, while three (23%) were between 11 and 20 years old.
Eleven cases (85%) involved eye injuries, and two (15%) were blast injuries.
Dr. Rodney Labis, chief of the IPHO’s Health Service Delivery Division, reported that all victims were boys, with the youngest aged 5 and the oldest 17.
Miagao logged the most cases with three injuries. Municipalities with one case each included Ajuy, Barotac Nuevo, Barotac Viejo, Cabatuan, Concepcion, Lambunao, Oton, San Joaquin, Santa Barbara, and Sara.
“Together with the Department of Health (DOH), we continue to campaign for the ‘Iwas Paputok’ initiative to keep our children safe,” Dr. Labis said.
“Although using fireworks to welcome the New Year is a tradition, it remains dangerous, especially for children. Many Ilonggos, particularly the youth, have already suffered injuries,” he added.
He urged the public to adopt safer alternatives for celebrating the New Year.
“To celebrate safely and joyously, we encourage the use of alternatives like motor horns, sound systems, party horns, and other light-and-sound devices instead of firecrackers. Parents must closely supervise their children, and barangay officials should help spread this message,” Dr. Labis said.
The campaign also advocates participation in organized community fireworks displays to reduce individual firework use.
The public is reminded to keep emergency hotlines ready and ensure access to first aid in case of accidents.
