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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Early injuries: DOH urges crackdown on illegal fireworks production

Early injuries: DOH urges crackdown on illegal fireworks production

Published Dec 23, 2023 08:14 am

The Department of Health (DOH) issued a strong appeal to parents on Saturday, Dec. 23, urging them to take measures to prevent their children from using firecrackers during the upcoming festivities.

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Photo from DOH

Based on the second report from the Fireworks-Related Injury Surveillance (FWRI) covering the period from 6 a.m. on Dec. 22 to 5:59 a.m. on Dec. 23, there have been four new cases of injuries related to firecrackers; four cases on the first day, bringing the total to eight cases.

The health department emphasized that all the new cases involved young boys aged eight to 12 years old who became victims of both three illegal and one legal firecrackers.

DOH said the specific types of firecrackers implicated in these cases include three "boga," two "piccolo," one "5-star," one "baby dynamite," and one "goodbye Philippines."

To address this concerning trend, the DOH called upon the collaboration of law enforcement agencies, local government officials, and barangay captains.

The department urged them to intervene in preventing the sale and use of illegal firecrackers while promoting the use of community-friendly alternatives.

"Parents, too, are crucial guardians in this mission—supervise your children and set the right example for a Merry and Safe Christmas!" it noted.

Moreover, under the directive of President Marcos Jr., the DOH has committed to responding promptly to address and care for every trauma and injury resulting from firecracker incidents.

Meanwhile, on Dec. 22, the DOH stressed that the first day of the holiday season saw a few cases of fireworks injuries caused by illegal pyrotechnics.

The department is mobilizing police, local leaders, traders, parents, and national government agencies to join forces against the illicit use of fireworks, such as boga, 5-star, and piccolo.

It noted that the health department is resolute in its commitment to eliminate the use of illegal fireworks, underscoring that established laws are in a position to safeguard communities from such dangers.

"We must stand firm to eradicate the use of illegal fireworks. Our laws are there to protect against illegal fireworks. We should all protect our communities. Dahil sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay Mahalaga (In the New Philippines, Every Life is Important), we must unite to prevent injury and death due to fireworks," DOH said.

DOH's call to action underscored the importance of community collaboration to create a festive season free from the risks posed by illegal fireworks.

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