The Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development is intensifying its call to the public to prioritize their health and safety amidst the holiday season as it sets out this year’s efforts for “Ligtas Christmas” campaign.
The said campaign aims to enhance health literacy among Filipinos by outlining three major components namely, Healthy Handaan, which encourages balanced, healthy food choices and self-discipline; BiyaHealthy, which strengthens road safety awareness; and Iwas Paputok, which advocates for safe alternatives to fireworks during New Year celebrations.
During a press conference on December 9, 2025, DOH Bicol Regional Program Manager for Violence and Injury Prevention Program (VIPP), Ms. Julie Ann L. Granadino emphasized that the “Ligtas Christmas” campaign is a joint initiative with key stakeholders such as the Bureau of Fire Protection Regional Office V (BFP RO V), Police Regional Office V (PRO V), and the National Nutrition Council (NNC) Bicol which seeks to prevent and reduce injuries, emergencies, and illnesses often linked with the holiday festivities.
According to Ms. Granadino, DOH Bicol has recorded a total of 61 firework-related injuries between December 21, 2024 until January 1, 2025, representing a 24% increase from the 49 cases recorded in the same period in 2023.
The Program Manager further stated that the most affected age group were 7-12 years old accounting for 41% of the cases in 2024.
To ensure a safer and healthier holiday, the DOH Bicol is working with the DOH-retained hospitals to conduct preparatory measures in response to emergency medical services for firework-related injuries, road traffic incidents, and other health-risks experienced during Christmas and New Year.
The Department will also be facilitating hospital rounds to assess health facility readiness and surveillance activities in preparation for all health emergencies during the holidays.
The DOH Bicol emphasizes that a joyous celebration can be possible without compromising one’s safety and well-being. The public is therefore urged to adopt healthy habits, avoid using fireworks and harmful explosives, and observe safety travel measures to enjoy a worry-free celebration.
Source: DOH Bicol CHD