A one-year-old child was the youngest victim of firecrackers in Ilocos Region, which saw a rise in firecracker-related injuries from December 21 to 30, 2024.

The child is a resident of Pozorrubio, Pangasinan. He was injured when someone in his area lit a firecracker.

“Katulad noong one-year old, hindi naman siya pwedeng magpaputok pero nadamay siya dahil sa mga nagpaputok around that place,” CHD spokesperson, Dr. Rheuel Bobis, said.

Ilocos Region recorded 60 cases from December 21 to 30, 2024, a 71 percent increase from the number of cases in the same period in 2023.

Pangasinan recorded the most number with 39 followed by La Union with 11, Ilocos Sur with eight, and Ilocos Norte with two.

According to the Center for Health Development (CHD) Ilocos, most injuries were caused by "boga" (24 cases), followed by "five-star" (9 cases) and "baby rocket."

Hours before the New Year, health authorities continue to urge the public to avoid firecrackers and use safer alternatives like drums, horns, or speakers, instead.

“Mahirap kung paputok kaya torotot ang bibilhin. Mas okay na ito, safe sila dito,” Leonardo Lalas, a local resident, said.

Region 1 Medical Center is on standby to address potential cases during New Year’s Eve celebrations.