The Philippines welcomed 2026 with a significant drop in fireworks-related injuries, according to the latest data from the Department of Health (DOH). The agency reported a 14-percent decrease in cases recorded during the recent holiday revelry compared to the previous year.
Surveillance Shows Decline in Holiday Injuries
Based on reports from 62 sentinel hospitals nationwide, the DOH logged a total of 720 firework-related injury cases from December 21, 2025, up to 4 a.m. on January 5, 2026. This figure is notably lower than the 834 cases documented during the same monitoring period a year earlier.
The data reveals a concerning trend among the youth. More than half of the victims, or 52 percent, were aged 19 years and below, accounting for 377 cases. The remaining 48 percent, or 343 cases, involved individuals aged 20 and above.
The health department identified the most common culprits behind these injuries. The list includes the popular kwitis (mini skyrocket), five-star, whistle bomb, boga (homemade cannon), and the banned piccolo.
DOH Reiterates Call for Medical Attention and Safer Celebrations
In its statement, the DOH strongly reminded the public to seek immediate medical help for any fireworks-related injuries, particularly burns and blast wounds, to prevent serious complications. Health officials emphasized that tetanus infection from open wounds can be life-threatening if not treated promptly and properly.
While encouraged by the decline, the department renewed its appeal for safer festivities. It continues to advocate for the public to avoid using fireworks altogether and instead choose safer alternatives, such as community fireworks displays, horns, or musical instruments, to celebrate future holidays.
Holiday Spike in Non-Communicable Diseases Also Monitored
Beyond fireworks injuries, the DOH also monitored a high number of acute complications from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) during the season. Data from 10 pilot sentinel sites showed a troubling spike in serious health episodes.
From December 21, 2025, to 4:59 a.m. on January 5, 2026, acute stroke cases topped the list with 223 incidents, mostly affecting people aged 40 and above. This was followed by acute coronary syndrome with 108 cases, primarily among patients 50 and older. Bronchial asthma accounted for 33 cases, also largely involving those over 40.
Tragically, the monitoring period recorded 12 deaths linked to these conditions. Seven individuals succumbed to complications from stroke, while five died from acute coronary syndrome.
The simultaneous reporting on both fireworks injuries and NCD complications underscores the broader health challenges that often accompany the holiday season's festivities and indulgences in the Philippines.
