The Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit has recorded six firecracker-related injuries in South Cotabato from December 21 to 6:00 AM of December 26, 2025 — marking a significant 57 percent decrease compared to the same period last year.
All reported cases involved male victims aged 6 to 34 years old, with those in their 20s comprising the majority of incidents. Most injuries occurred during direct handling of fireworks, including prohibited firecrackers. Five of the victims were treated as outpatients, while one required hospital admission. Authorities also confirmed that no stray bullet incidents or deaths have been reported so far.
Health officials credited the decline to stronger public awareness and ongoing enforcement of firework safety regulations. However, they stressed that achieving zero cases remains the ultimate goal.
“As celebrations continue, we remind the public that even one injury is one too many,” officials said, urging communities to observe stricter safety measures during the holiday festivities.
Residents are advised to avoid illegal fireworks, keep pyrotechnics out of children’s reach, provide close supervision to minors at all times, and consider safer alternatives such as noise-making devices or organized community fireworks displays.
Local authorities emphasized that cooperation from the public remains crucial to ensuring a safe and injury-free New Year celebration.