As the Philippines counts down to the new year, authorities are bracing themselves for another familiar increase in injuries and deaths linked to fireworks, despite decades of regulation, annual warnings and stepped-up police raids.
Health officials say dozens of people have already been hurt in the run-up to December 31, with more casualties expected as Filipinos usher in the new year with explosive celebrations that light up streets, backyards and skylines across the country.
The Department of Health said as of Saturday, at least 57 people had been treated in government hospitals for firework-related injuries, including children who lost fingers when fireworks exploded in their hands. Police have also reported deaths linked to stray bullets fired into the air during Christmas celebrations.
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Despite these risks, fireworks remain deeply woven into the country’s new year traditions, driven by a belief that loud noise scares away bad luck and evil spirits.
Every year from November onwards, health officials, firefighters and police issue warnings, raid illegal dealers and urge the public to avoid powerful pyrotechnics.
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And every December 31, millions of Filipinos pour into the streets or stay in their backyards and set off a vast assortment of fireworks – many of them illegal and most of them dangerous.
