Fireworks injured six persons in Negros Occidental and Bacolod City over the Christmas break, the Provincial Health Office reported on Tuesday, December 27.
There were two persons injured in Bago City, and one each in Bacolod City, Binalbagan, Hinigaran, and Sagay City.
One of those injured was tricycle driver Rex Gallendo, 45, who was drinking alcohol with his relatives at about 12:30 a.m. on Christmas Day at Purok Kamunsil, Brgy. Sampinit, Bago City, the police said.
His brother Eduardo lighted a whistle bomb that he picked up, and it exploded in his right hand.
Gallendo sustained injuries on his right hand and was brought to the Bago City Hospital and was later transferred to the Bacolod Queen of Mercy Hospital, the police reported.
Dr. Jessica Fama, Medical Specialist 3 of the Negros Occidental Provincial Health Office, said they are campaigning for zero injuries during the New Year celebrations.
Fama reiterated the call for the public to avoid using firecrackers and to instead use makeshift noisemakers such as kitchen utensils to usher in the New Year.
The public can also watch community fireworks put up by their local government units, she said.
“Amid the financial difficulties now let’s not buy fireworks and burn our money,” she said.
Fireworks injuries will also mean having to pay for hospital bills, Fama also pointed out.*