The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a total of 25 firecracker-related injuries on Christmas Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 24.
The latest data, according to DOH, came from 62 sentinel sites being monitored.
DOH reported a total of eight new injury cases on Dec. 24, which is lower compared to the 12 reported in December 2023.
Of the 25 cases, DOH said 23 are male and two are female.
The DOH also noted that 20 out of the 25 victims are aged 19 and below, while five victims are 20 years old and above.
Meanwhile, DOH reminded the public to welcome Christmas and New Year safely and healthily.
DOH also advised everyone not to use firecrackers, to report those who use and sell illegal firecrackers, and not to pick up or light firecrackers scattered on the street.
The public was also reminded to keep poisonous and gunpowder products, like small firecrackers (watusi), away from children as they may swallow them.
"Karamihan sa biktima ng paputok ay mga bata (Most of the firecracker victims are children)," DOH said.
"Bantayan ang mga anak at ibang kabataan na iwasan ang paggamit ng paputok (Supervise children and other young people to avoid using firecrackers)," DOH added.
The Health Department also urged the public to use alternative noisemakers such as horns and pots, enjoy karaoke with family and friends instead of firecrackers, or watch community fireworks displays from the local government unit (LGU).
“Maging handa at siguruhing may first aid kit kung sakaling masugatan dahil sa paputok (Be prepared and ensure you have a first aid kit in case of injuries from firecrackers),” DOH said.