DOH-8 chief expresses gratitude for ‘Ligtas Christmas’ campaign success in Eastern Visayas

TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) – Regional Director Exuperia Sabalberino of the Department of Health – Eastern Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH-EVCHD) said the Ligtas Christmas campaign has been successful in the region as she expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to ensuring a healthy and peaceful celebration of the Yuletide season.

This is despite the reported slight increase in firecracker-related injuries in the region, which saw an increase from 31 to 34 cases compared to the same period a year ago.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partner agencies, media partners, and most importantly, the public for their cooperation and support. Together, we are building a safer, healthier future for all,” Sabalberino said.

Jelyn Lopez-Malibago, DOH-8 regional information officer said the total cases cover the period December 21, 2024 to January 6, 2025.

Of the 34 firework-related injuries recorded in the region, 29 were classified as minor burns while five cases involved more severe injuries, including eye injuries of three individuals and finger amputations of two.

Most of the injuries were caused by kwitis, lantaka, whistle bombs, fountains, five-star fireworks, sparklers, pla-pla, and piccolos. Malibago said majority of the victims were males aged 5 to 10 years old.

While the slight increase is somewhat concerning, the health department said that no major injuries were reported, apart from the two cases of amputation.

Malibago added that there were no reported deaths or incidents involving stray bullets or firecracker ingestion.

This year’s Ligtas Christmas campaign of the Department of Health has been expanded to include surveillance and monitoring of not just firework-related injuries but also other types of injuries during the holiday season. (CBA, PIA Eastern Visayas)

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