MANILA: A 72-year-old man in Manila has sustained injuries from a fireworks-related incident, the Department of Health (DOH) reported on Saturday. This incident, caused by a 'kwitis' (skyrocket) lit by another individual, highlights the continuing issue of fireworks-related injuries in the National Capital Region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the senior citizen is the oldest among the 11 new cases of fireworks-related injuries reported as of Friday, bringing the total number to 107 for the year. These incidents predominantly occurred at home and on the streets, affecting individuals of all ages, with the youngest being a six-year-old. Additionally, the DOH reported a new case of amputation involving a 19-year-old male from Cagayan Valley, whose left hand was severely injured by an illegal 'Pla-Pla,' a potent rectangular-shaped firecracker.
The department noted a clear trend in the data, indicating that such injuries often happen at home or nearby, mostly involving young males but also affecting passive bystanders regardless of age or gender. There have been no further reports of ingestion-related incidents so far.
The DOH reiterated its previous advice, stating that observing community fireworks displays from a safe distance remains the safest way to celebrate the New Year. The report also identified the most common fireworks that lead to injuries, including boga (improvised cannon), Five Star, kwitis, Piccolo, Pla-Pla, luces (sparklers), and Whistle Bomb, responsible for nearly 70% of the injuries.