5 fireworks-related amputations recorded

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded five cases of traumatic amputations due to fireworks use the day after Christmas.

Its latest Fireworks Related Injury (FWRI) Report said the victims were three minors and two adults, all male, from across the country. This resulted in lost or mangled fingers and hands.

“To blame are the illegal boga, plapla, five-star, Goodbye Philippines fireworks and the legal whistle bomb,” the DOH said.

The agency noted that cases involving amputations were included in the 24 new cases of fireworks-related injuries recorded as of 5:59 a.m. of Dec. 26. Those injured were five to 52 years of age, with only one female.

Twenty-two (92 percent) cases occurred at home or in nearby streets while 21 (88 percent) had active involvement, with 16 (67 percent) of the fireworks being illegal.

The DOH said this now brings the total count to 52 fireworks-related injuries cases, with the National Capital Region (20), Central Luzon (6), and Soccsksargen (5) contributing six out of every ten cases.

“Losing a finger, hand or arm is painful, expensive and traumatic. Say goodbye to fireworks use at home instead of saying goodbye to your fingers,” the health department warned.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified law enforcement

operations against sellers of prohibited firecrackers ahead of the New Year’s Eve festivities, including those who are using online platforms to sell banned fireworks.

PNP chief information officer Col. Jean Fajardo said they are closely monitoring cyberspace for people who are selling banned firecrackers on social media platforms.

She added that police officers will also conduct random inspections of public markets, retail stores and stalls along the street for prohibited firecrackers.

The Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) is working closely with the Anti-Cybercrime Group in tracking down people selling banned firecrackers online.

Among these firecrackers is Goodbye Hamas, a type of firecracker made to look just like a fountain but explodes like a grenade, according to Lt. Arturo Garingan of the FEO’s explosives management division.

The FEO said firecrackers should only have a maximum of