BICOL: The Department of Health in Bicol (DOH-5) has reported a total of 36 fireworks-related injuries across the region, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with holiday celebrations. The injuries, recorded between December 21 and December 31, 2024, occurred in the provinces of Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Albay, and Naga City.

According to Philippines News Agency, healthcare facilities throughout Bicol treated the injured individuals, including eight at the Bicol Medical Center and 12 at the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center. Additionally, eight patients were treated at the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital, one at the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center, three at the Naga City Hospital, and four at the Josefina Belmonte Duran Albay Provincial Hospital. The incidents involved various types of fireworks, such as kwitis (mini rocket), five-star firecracker, “bawang,” sparklers, whistle bombs, and boga (improvised cannon).

Of the 36 individuals affected, 34 were discharged after receiving medical attention, while two required hospitalization for further care. The report noted that the youngest victim was a three-year-old male, and the oldest was a 67-year-old, with both sustaining injuries from the five-star firecracker. The majority of those injured were male, numbering 31, while five were female, underscoring a significant gender disparity in fireworks-related injuries.