MANILA, Philippines — The number of Filipinos who sustained injuries from firecrackers has now reached 43 cases, the Department of Health (DOH) said.

The DOH data, collected from 62 sentinel sites nationwide and released Wednesday afternoon, shows an increase in reported incidents as the holiday celebrations continue, with 18 new cases documented on Christmas Day alone.

Of the total cases, 34 involve individuals aged 19 years old and below, while the remaining 9 cases involve those aged 20 years old and above. 

The majority of the victims are male, accounting for 39 cases, compared to 4 cases involving females.

Illegal firecrackers remain a key concern, contributing to 86 percent of the injuries. The “boga,” an improvised cannon commonly used during the holidays, has been identified as a frequent cause of these incidents.

Compared to last year, Christmas Day injuries have decreased, with 18 cases reported this year versus 28 cases on the same day in 2023. However, the DOH continues to monitor the situation as the New Year approaches.

The department is reminding the public to prioritize safety during celebrations by avoiding firecrackers and opting for alternative noise-making options such as horns and music.

In case of emergencies, individuals can contact the 911 emergency hotline or the DOH hotline at 1555, the health bureau said.