NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Kwitis And Boga Lead Firework Injuries In 2025 Celebrations; DOH Monitors Stroke, Other Health Cases Post-Holiday Feasts
FILE
The Department of Health (DOH) has reported 534 cases of firework-related injuries (FWRI) from December 22, 2024, to 6:00 AM on January 2, 2025. This marks a 9.8% decrease compared to the 592 cases recorded in the same period last year.
Leading the list of culprits are the infamous kwitis and boga, with 90 and 79 cases recorded, respectively. Alarmingly, most victims are under 19 years old, totaling 322 cases. Of these, 254 actively handled the fireworks themselves.
Hospitals have had their hands full. The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) reported 17 FWRI cases, including three amputations. Meanwhile, the Tondo Medical Center treated 56 cases, with 29 victims found to be under the influence of alcohol while using fireworks. One also required amputation.
But it’s not just fireworks injuries that the DOH is concerned about. The aftermath of holiday feasts has triggered a rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like stroke, acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and bronchial asthma.
Spike in Stroke Cases
The DOH noted a sharp increase in stroke cases, jumping from 12 on December 23 to 146 by January 2, 2025, with two fatalities. Most patients were between 45 and 64 years old. PGH and Tondo Medical Center recorded 140 and 41 cases, respectively.
Rise in Heart and Asthma Conditions
Cases of ACS also surged, climbing from 2 on December 22 to 74 by January 2. Most patients were aged 55 to 74. Meanwhile, bronchial asthma cases rose from 6 to 80, with children aged 0 to 9 being the most affected. PGH treated 46 asthma patients, while Tondo Medical Center handled 11.
Health Reminders for 2025
The DOH urges everyone to make healthier choices this year:
• Avoid overindulging in salty, sweet, or fatty foods.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Consult your doctor regularly to manage conditions like hypertension.
“The harmful effects of fireworks can last a lifetime—amputated fingers or hands, burns, blindness, and even lung diseases,” the DOH reminded. While firework-related injuries have decreased, the agency emphasizes the need for stricter anti-fireworks campaigns and greater public health awareness.
“Let’s start the year right with better health habits—proper diet, exercise, and discipline can help prevent severe illnesses. Make 2025 your healthiest year yet!”
Leading the list of culprits are the infamous kwitis and boga, with 90 and 79 cases recorded, respectively. Alarmingly, most victims are under 19 years old, totaling 322 cases. Of these, 254 actively handled the fireworks themselves.
Hospitals have had their hands full. The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) reported 17 FWRI cases, including three amputations. Meanwhile, the Tondo Medical Center treated 56 cases, with 29 victims found to be under the influence of alcohol while using fireworks. One also required amputation.
But it’s not just fireworks injuries that the DOH is concerned about. The aftermath of holiday feasts has triggered a rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like stroke, acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and bronchial asthma.
Spike in Stroke Cases
The DOH noted a sharp increase in stroke cases, jumping from 12 on December 23 to 146 by January 2, 2025, with two fatalities. Most patients were between 45 and 64 years old. PGH and Tondo Medical Center recorded 140 and 41 cases, respectively.
Rise in Heart and Asthma Conditions
Cases of ACS also surged, climbing from 2 on December 22 to 74 by January 2. Most patients were aged 55 to 74. Meanwhile, bronchial asthma cases rose from 6 to 80, with children aged 0 to 9 being the most affected. PGH treated 46 asthma patients, while Tondo Medical Center handled 11.
Health Reminders for 2025
The DOH urges everyone to make healthier choices this year:
• Avoid overindulging in salty, sweet, or fatty foods.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Consult your doctor regularly to manage conditions like hypertension.
“The harmful effects of fireworks can last a lifetime—amputated fingers or hands, burns, blindness, and even lung diseases,” the DOH reminded. While firework-related injuries have decreased, the agency emphasizes the need for stricter anti-fireworks campaigns and greater public health awareness.
“Let’s start the year right with better health habits—proper diet, exercise, and discipline can help prevent severe illnesses. Make 2025 your healthiest year yet!”
Jan 2, 2025
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