Fewer firecracker-related injuries seen these holidays

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) sees fewer firecracker-related injuries with less manufacturers selling firecrackers this coming holiday season.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said President Duterte’s order suspending the issuance of new license and permit for firecracker manufacturers was a big boost to the DOH’s efforts to reduce firecracker-related injuries.

“Definitely, it will lower (firecracker-related injuries) further with this new order by the President,” Duque said, referring to Memorandum Order 31.

“Of course, what we really want is to have zero firecracker-related injuries, zero casualties during the New Year,” Duque added.

Duterte previously suspended the processing of new licenses and permits for the manufacture, sale and distribution of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

Under the order, the suspension will be in effect pending review of existing compliance of firecracker manufacturers and distributors with existing laws, rules and regulations.

Last year, Duterte prohibited the use of firecrackers nationwide, but allowed the use of pyrotechnics during community fireworks display.

The DOH recorded a total of 463 firecracker-related injuries as the country welcomed 2018. The figure was 27 percent lower than the previous year.

Duque urged parents and guardians to do their part in protecting their children from firecracker-related injuries.

“Let us look for other ways to celebrate the New Year. Keep your children away from firecrackers as they really have potential to inflict harm,” Duque said. 

He asked the public to use safer alternatives during the New Year celebration.