By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Department of Health Western Visayas (DOH-6) reported that 10 individuals underwent amputations due to fireworks-related injuries during the recent holiday celebrations.

From Dec. 21, 2024, to Jan. 5, 2025, the region recorded 325 injuries linked to fireworks. Of these, 67 cases were reported by sentinel hospitals, marking an 81% increase compared to the same period last year, while non-sentinel hospitals logged 258 cases, reflecting a 5% uptick.

The majority of the injuries, 235 cases, involved blast or burn incidents without amputation. Another 70 cases were related to eye injuries, and four involved blast or burn injuries with eye trauma.

The DOH-6 identified boga, a homemade cannon, as the leading cause of injuries reported at sentinel hospitals, with 13 cases. Kwitis and camara fireworks followed as frequent culprits.

For non-sentinel hospitals, kwitis and triangle fireworks were the top causes, each responsible for 44 cases, while boga accounted for 38 cases.

Negros Occidental recorded the highest number of fireworks-related injuries in Western Visayas, with 109 cases. Iloilo province followed with 76 cases, while Aklan had 37, Capiz 30, Bacolod City 25, Antique and Iloilo City 20 each, and Guimaras eight.

Despite the surge in injuries, no fatalities, stray bullet incidents, or cases of fireworks ingestion were reported.

The health department highlighted that individuals aged 1 to 20 years old were the most affected age group, emphasizing the vulnerability of younger populations to firecracker-related incidents.

The DOH-6 reminded the public to adhere to firecracker safety regulations and explore safer alternatives for celebrations to prevent injuries in the future. The department also called for stricter enforcement of laws prohibiting the use of illegal fireworks such as boga.

With the alarming increase in injuries this year, health officials are urging local government units to intensify efforts in promoting safe and injury-free celebrations.