The Department of Health (DOH) reported 112 fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) from December 21–28, 26% less than last year. Metro Manila has the most cases (52), followed by Ilocos Region (12), Central Luzon (9) and Western Visayas (9).
Most of the victims were aged 5–14, and 55 were males. Five-star was the leading cause of injury, followed by boga, kwitis, piccolo, pla-pla, and whistle bomb. Many also said they were just passive victims.
There were also 376 road crashes recorded nationwide—5.76% lower than in 2024. The ages 15–29 were most affected, and 73% of the incidents involved motorcycles.
In Ilocos, the PNP destroyed 10,906 illegal fireworks, part of an intensified campaign for safe celebrations. In total, 72,708 illegal fireworks worth ₱1.15M were seized and 23 were arrested in 486 operations.
PAWS calls for avoiding fireworks due to extreme stress and danger to animals. The DILG and PNP have urged barangays to take the lead in implementing the ordinance, coordinate with the BFP, and call Unified 911 in times of emergency.
