CAPIZ — The holiday season took a grim turn in Capiz as the province recorded its first firecracker-related injury of the year, involving a 13-year-old boy from Pontevedra who lost two fingers on his right hand on December 27.
The incident occurred while the minor was handling a firecracker locally known as “bawang-bawang,” highlighting the dangers associated with pyrotechnics during festive celebrations.
In a local radio interview, the Department of Health (DOH)–Capiz Information Officer and Development Management Officer IV Joefrry Espiritu confirmed the incident, saying the boy also sustained severe burns on the palm of his hand.
The victim was immediately rushed to a local hospital and is currently undergoing treatment. Due to the severity of his injuries, he is scheduled to undergo further surgical procedures.
Espiritu said the case marks the beginning of a concerning trend this holiday season, as Capiz has already recorded three firecracker-related injuries within a short period.
According to the Capiz Provincial Health Office bulletin released the same day, the reported cases involved burns, severed fingers, and eye injuries caused by various firecrackers.
Aside from the Pontevedra incident, additional injuries were reported in the towns of Dumarao and Mambusao. The victims sustained injuries from firecrackers such as “bawang-bawang,” “boga,” and “camara.”
The surge in incidents has alarmed local health officials and community members.
In response, the DOH issued a renewed appeal to parents and guardians to closely supervise their children during the holiday season. Espiritu strongly discouraged the use of firecrackers, stressing the risk of serious and life-altering injuries.
“We want families to celebrate safely and responsibly. The thrill of fireworks should never come at the cost of a child’s well-being,” Espiritu said.
The DOH also plans to intensify information and education campaigns to raise public awareness about the dangers of firecrackers and promote safer alternatives for celebrations.
As holiday festivities continue, authorities urged the public to prioritize safety to ensure a joyful and injury-free season for all Capizeños. Families were likewise reminded that there are safer ways to celebrate without exposing loved ones to the risks posed by firecrackers./PN
