INQUIRER FILES / AFP
LEGAZPI CITY – Twelve fireworks and firecracker – related injuries have so far been reported by the Department of Health (DOH) in the Bicol region from Dec. 21 to 30.
More than half, or seven of the injuries were caused by “boga” or improvised canon.
In the Firework-Related Injury (FWRI) Surveillance, DOH-Bicol said the two other cases were caused by 5-star, two by fountain and one due to sparklers.
The agency reported that seven of the victims were minors.
In the last FWRI monitoring from Dec. 21, 2022 to Jan. 5, 2023, the DOH recorded a total of 20 cases.
Brigadier General Andre Perez Dizon, Bicol police chief, said they intensified the campaign against illegal firecrackers and fireworks. He added that 138 improvised canons have been confiscated as of Saturday
“We have sustained campaign against boga with the help of our barangay folks, local government units and all sectors of the community,” Dizon said.