New Year firecracker injuries rise to 307
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health reported more firecracker and fireworks injuries on Friday pegging the number at 307.
This is 71 more than the 139 injuries reported on Wednesday.
While the DOH initially reported a 68-percent reduction in injuries compared to the same period (December 21 to January 1) last year, this reduces the gap to a 40-percent reduction. A total of 428 people were injured during last year's New Year celebrations for the same period.
READ: New Year firecracker injury count rises to 236
According to the DOH report, about half of the injuries were caused by firecracker brands kwitis, luces, piccolo, 5-star and boga.
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III attributed the decrease in injuries to Executive Order No. 28, signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017, which gave the Philippine National Police authority to regulate illegal firecrackers and fireworks.
He also said "relentless" rains brought about by Tropical Depression Usman also contributed to the reduction in injuries this year.
The DOH is expected to release its final injury report on Saturday.
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