By Rowena Cruz Authorities in Quezon Province display a massive haul of over 43,000 illegal firecrackers, valued at over 2 million pesos, se...
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| Authorities in Quezon Province display a massive haul of over 43,000 illegal firecrackers, valued at over 2 million pesos, seized in a preemptive crackdown after a concerning rise in injuries during New Year's Eve celebrations. (Photo from Police Regional Office 4A) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon – While many in the CALABARZON region welcomed the new year with joyous celebrations, some residents of Quezon Province face a less fortunate start. Lucena City recorded the highest number of firecracker-related injuries with 6 cases, followed by Mauban with 3. Candelaria and Tiaong each reported 2 cases.
This localized increase is particularly troubling considering the regional success in curbing such incidents. CALABARZON recorded a significant drop in cases from 271 in 2024 to 160 this year, according to the Department of Health (DOH). However, Quezon Province defied this trend, reporting 20 cases during New Year's Eve celebrations.
Most injuries in Quezon Province involved males aged 15-30, with Kwitis (rocket fireworks) being the primary culprit. Officials cite improper handling and unsupervised use by minors as contributing factors. Dr. Eduardo Janairo, Provincial Health Officer, stresses the importance of public awareness and responsible celebration practices. "We urge everyone to be cautious when handling firecrackers and to seek immediate medical attention if injuries occur," he advises.
He also highlighted that the total number of injuries in the province is unfortunately consistent with previous years where Quezon has seen a higher rate of incidents compared to other areas in CALABARZON. This trend, he notes, may be linked to the province's strong traditions surrounding firework use during festivities.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office CALABARZON's intensified campaign, which included raids and confiscation of 43,000 assorted illegal firecrackers valued at over 2 million pesos, contributed to the regional decline in injuries. This campaign, launched in November, focused on public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of regulations against illegal firecrackers, particularly "boga," which has been identified as a major cause of injuries in previous years.
"We are concerned about the rise in cases in Quezon Province," says PBGEN Paul Kenneth T Lucas, Regional Director for CALABARZON police. "We will be working closely with local authorities to address this issue and ensure the safety of the community." He further emphasized the need for increased vigilance and community involvement in reporting the illegal sale and use of firecrackers.
To combat this trend, the Quezon Provincial Health Office is expanding its community outreach programs, focusing on education and responsible celebration practices. These programs will specifically target areas with higher incident rates, such as Lucena City and Mauban. The police also plan to intensify efforts in Quezon Province, working closely with local communities to identify the root causes of this increase and implement targeted interventions.
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