The Department of Health in Ilocos Region (DOH-1) logged 70 fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) in the region from Dec. 21 to 31, 2024, which is 49 percent higher than the 47 recorded during the same period in 2023.
“Of the total number, 46 are in Pangasinan, 12 in La Union, 10 in Ilocos Sur, and two in Ilocos Norte,” said DOH-1 medical officer Dr. Rheuel Bobis during a phone interview on Wednesday.
Recorded FWRIs in the provinces in 2024 increased compared to 2023, except for Ilocos Norte, which had the same number of victims. Bobis noted that most injuries were caused by “boga,” or improvised cannon, which accounted for 41 percent, or 29 cases, of the total FWRI.
He added that five-star fireworks are the second leading cause of FWRI, with nine cases, followed by baby rockets and skyrockets, with four each; whistle device, with three; and giant whistle bombs and “pla-pla,” with two each.
“There were no reported deaths, but two of the victims have been amputated,” Bobis said, adding that most victims sustained burn or blast injuries.
The hospitals in the region will stay under code white until Jan. 6.
“The alert status ensures that all hospitals are prepared to deal with any medical emergencies during the long weekend,” he said.
He added that code white alert also puts all health professionals, health personnel, and workers on standby to respond to medical emergencies at any time.
By Hilda Austria
(PNA)