Department of Health Records Four Fireworks-Related Injuries in Eastern Visayas

TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Health (DOH) reported four fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) in Eastern Visayas, including three young boys, during its monitoring of holiday celebrations. The victims include an eight-year-old from Palo, Leyte, a six-year-old from Taft, Eastern Samar, and a 24-year-old from Borongan City, Eastern Samar, all injured by a “lantaka” or portable cannon, and an 11-year-old from Paranas, Samar, injured by a banned firecracker.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOH Regional Information Officer Jelyn Lopez-Malibago emphasized the importance of safe and healthy holiday celebrations, advocating for alternative noisemaking methods such as trumpets, horns, music, and cans. The incidents highlight ongoing concerns about the dangers of fireworks and the government’s efforts to promote safer celebration practices.