DOH Sec. Francisco Duque III had the lowest number of casualties due to fireworks at the start of the new year.
According to the secretary, the number of people injured today is 85% less than 50 nationwide compared to last year which reached 290 in the same period.
Based on the five-year average from 2015, it is still 89% lower.
DOH duque presscon new year
DOH Sec. Francisco Duque III
Sec Duque further reported that of the 50 injured, 49 were fireworks related injuries while one was hit by a stray bullet.
However, data from the PNP on the complete casualties of the stray bullets has not yet reached the DOH.
Duque, on the other hand, begged those who had wounds to go to the hospitals to prevent tetanus.
The DOH will end registration on January 6 for those injured due to fireworks.
Duque also thanked the media for helping with their firefighting campaign, LGUs and the impact of the pandemic crisis so that the wounded are down.
“The lower numbers we achieved this year is a welcome development, but we will not stop until we achieve zero firework related injuries and ensure that the next holidays will be safer for every Filipino,” said Sec. Duque. “We have also observed that there was a change of behavior of Filipinos towards health. Due to the pandemic, the Filipinos became more aware and involved in ensuring health and safety of their family and community. This decrease is also the success of all the families who follow the government’s prescribed protocols and instill good values to their children. We shall continue to create healthier and safer communities. ”
