Firecracker-related injuries in SOCCSKSARGEN reached 84.

Data from the Department of Health-SOCCSKSARGEN (DOH-12) showed that from December 21, 2024 to January 3, 2025, firecracker-related injuries went up to 84, higher than the 74 cases recorded in the same period in 2023-2024.

Most of the victims are men.

Authorities said kwitis is the leading cause of injuries with 16, followed by “boga” with 12; 5-star with 11; and triangle with 10.

Of the 84 cases, 43 were reported in South Cotabato; 15 in North Cotabato; nine each in Sultan Kudarat and General Santos City; and eight in Sarangani.

“Pero pag-execute o sinasabing masama ang epekto ng paputok pero ginagawa pa rin , yun po ang isa sa mga challenges natin kaya nga isa sa mga tinutukan natin for the next succeeding… di lamang ngayon but even other health programs is yung behavior change ng mga tao,” DOH-12 Spokesperson, Arjohn Gangoso, said.

DOH-12 will continue to conduct surveillance on firecracker-related injuries until January 6.

“Para ma-assess at mabigyan ng tamang intervention ng ating mga health care workers kasi kung hindi siya maagapan pwede po tayong magkaroon ng tetanus,” Gangoso added.