The Department of Health (DOH) reported five amputation cases caused by fireworks injuries between Dec. 25 and 26, bringing the total number of fireworks-related injuries this holiday season to 52.
“The five amputations resulted in lost or mangled fingers and hands,” the DOH said.
“Involved were three minors and two adults, all male, from across the country,” it also said.
It added that the amputation cases resulted from the use of whistle bombs, “boga,” “plapla,” “five-star,” and “Goodbye Philippines” fireworks.
With the exception of the whistle bomb, these firecrackers are illegal.
Between Dec. 25 and 26, the DOH said there were 24 new cases of injuries related to fireworks, ranging in age from five to 52.
Most of the cases involved men.
“Twenty-two cases (92 percent) occurred at home or nearby streets. Twenty-one cases (88 percent) had active involvement, with 16 (67 percent) of the fireworks being illegal,” the DOH said.