Exploded firecrackers cover a stretch of Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017, after Saturday night’s frenzy of fireworks to greet the New Year. (Photo by JOAN BONDOC / Philippine Daily Inquirer)
Metro Manila showed a notable decrease in New Year firecracker injuries this year compared to last year, according to initial data from National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
From Dec. 16, 2016 to Jan. 1, 2017, 156 persons were hurt due to firecracker use, according to NCRPO data.
But this year, the police monitored 105 firecracker injuries across the metropolis from Dec. 16, 2017 to Jan. 1, 2018.
The highest number of injuries came from the area under the jurisdiction of Manila Police District which is at 61.
The second highest number of injuries was recorded in Quezon City at 22.
The Eastern Police District and Southern Police District each recorded three incidents of firecracker injuries.
Before the New Year’s Eve celebration, Director General Ronald dela Rosa, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, directed his top commanders to ensure zero casualties in their areas of responsibility, as it would be “reflective of their leadership.”
Meanwhile, fire incidents due to firecracker use in Metro Manila decreased from five incidents to four. /atm