MANILA, Philippines – Change has really come to the country, with even the number of firecracker-related injuries down this year, data from Health department showed.
A total of 141 injuries were recorded by the Department of Health between December 21 up to 6 a.m. on Saturday, December 31.
DOH spokesperson Dr. Enrique Tayag said in an ABS-CBN News Channel report that the numbers were 34 lower lower compared to 214 incidents in the same period last year.
Tayag said the number of injuries may soar between 10 p.m. Saturday and 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police reported in their 'Iwas Paputok at Disgrasya' advisory one death due to stray bullet. Four others were also hurt, while nine civilians were arrested for the illegal discharge of firearms.
The PNP also seized P827,260 worth of illegal firecrackers, including Piccolo, watusi and boga.
The DOH has already declared “code white” in the country and will monitor all firecracker related injuries until January 5.