MANILA: The Department of Health (DOH) reported two cases of stray bullet injuries in the National Capital Region (NCR) over New Year’s Eve, marking a significant reduction in such incidents compared to previous years. The incidents occurred in Tondo, Manila, and Pasig City, underscoring ongoing public safety challenges during festive celebrations.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa disclosed the details during a media forum, noting the decrease in stray bullet cases by 50 percent, which he attributed to effective preventive measures. Colonel Angel Garcillano, chief of the Philippine National Police Community Affairs and Development Division, stated that the victims were inside their homes when they were unexpectedly struck.

Herbosa credited the reduction to the Philippine National Police’s annual initiative to seal the firearms of uniformed personnel ahead of New Year festivities, a move aimed at curbing indiscriminate firing. He highlighted the effectiveness of this strategy, stating, “To avoid firing, it looks good, before there were a lot of stray bullet cases.”

In addition to these efforts, Garcillano emphasized the role of extensive information campaigns conducted by the DOH, PNP, and local government units in reducing stray bullet incidents. Meanwhile, the DOH recorded 534 fireworks-related injuries, resulting in four fatalities. One of the deceased was a 78-year-old man from Nueva Ecija province who suffered acute respiratory failure after lighting a Judas’ belt on December 22.

Herbosa noted the increased vulnerability of elderly individuals to such injuries, indicating that recovery is more challenging for those over 70. As the DOH continues to validate the causes of the other three deaths, Herbosa reiterated the agency’s commitment to advocating for a total ban on fireworks or promoting community fireworks displays to prevent further casualties.