DECEMBER 28, 2025 — The Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed 91 cases of firework-related injuries nationwide, with more than half involving children, underscoring the persistent dangers of holiday revelry despite a drop in incidents compared to last year.

Among the latest victims are two minors who suffered finger amputations in separate explosions. DOH Health Promotion Bureau Director Tina Marasigan reported that an eight-year-old lost his index finger and thumb after a whistle bomb detonated, while a 16-year-old sustained amputations from a five star firecracker.

“Dalawang bata po ang nagtamo ng paso at naputulan pa ng daliri sa magkahiwalay na insidente nang masabugan ng paputok — hintuturo at hinlalaki ang nalagas mula sa isang walong taong gulang na bata nang masabugan ng whistle bomb habang dalawang daliri rin ang naputol sa labing-anim na taong gulang na bata nang masabugan ng five star,” she said. 

(Two children suffered burns and lost fingers in separate incidents caused by firecracker explosions — an eight-year-old lost his index finger and thumb after a whistle bomb exploded, while a 16-year-old also had two fingers amputated after being injured by a five star.)

Of the 91 cases logged as of December 27, 35 involved minors. All victims sustained multiple injuries or burns affecting different parts of the body.

While the tally is 49 percent lower than the 112 cases recorded on the same date in 2024, health officials stressed that firecrackers remain hazardous regardless of whether they are sold legally or illegally. 

“Kahit mas mababa man ng 49 percent ang naitalang kaso ng DOH kumpara sa 112 na kaso sa parehong petsa noong 2024, pinapaalala pa rin ng kagawaran na mapanganib ang paputok, ilegal man o legal na ibinebenta,” Marasigan warned. 

(Even if the DOH recorded 49 percent fewer cases compared with the 112 cases logged on the same date in 2024, the department continues to remind the public that firecrackers are dangerous, whether illegally or legally sold.)

The five star firecracker was identified as the leading cause of injuries, followed by kwitis, boga, and triangle. 

Beyond physical harm, the DOH also raised concerns about smoke from firecrackers, which poses heightened risks for asthma sufferers, particularly children and senior citizens.

Such incidents highlight the tension between tradition and public safety, sparking debate on whether the country should finally move toward a firecracker-free celebration.

As Filipinos prepare to welcome the new year, the DOH’s reminders serve as a stark warning — festivity should never come at the cost of lives and limbs.

(Image: Philippine News Agency)