Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a total of 843 fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) from December 22, 2024, to 6 a.m. January 6, marking a significant increase.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOH recorded two new cases on December 31, 2024, three on January 1, and six in the preceding days. The total count represents a 38 percent rise compared to the 610 injuries documented by January 6, 2024. The number of fatalities has remained unchanged at four.

The data shows that 499 of the cases involved individuals aged 19 and below, while 344 were aged 20 and above. Among the injured, 696 were males and 147 females. The leading causes of these injuries have been identified as kwitis (mini skyrockets), five star, and boga (improvised cannon).

The DOH continues to urge the public to steer clear of illegal fireworks to prevent injuries such as blindness, loss of hearing, burns, and loss of body parts.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police's 'Ligtas Paskuhan' (Safe Christmas) final monitoring revealed that over 600,000 illegal firecrackers were confiscated during the holiday season. In a press briefing at Camp Crame in Quezon City, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo reported the seizure of 607,046 illegal firecrackers valued at approximately PHP4.1 million, with 85 arrests made.

Additionally, police recorded 37 cases of indiscriminate firing, resulting in injuries to five individuals. Authorities apprehended 31 people and confiscated 21 firearms. In the Davao Region, stray bullets resulted in one fatality and injured 10 others.