Capiz logs 19 firecracker injuries during New Year

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Local health authorities recorded 19 firecracker-related injuries across Capiz province during celebrations welcoming the year 2026.

According to the latest bulletin from the Provincial Health Office, 10 of the injured individuals were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incidents, while nine were not intoxicated.

Health officials said 16 of the cases involved active participation, meaning the victims themselves lit the firecrackers.

The remaining cases were classified as passive involvement, in which individuals were injured by stray firecrackers.

Of the total number of cases, 10 victims sustained blast or burn injuries without amputation.

Six others suffered blast or burn injuries that resulted in amputation.

Three individuals sustained eye injuries, according to health authorities.

Data further showed that five injuries were caused by whistle bombs.

Three cases were linked to kwitis, while two were caused by boga and another two by camara firecrackers.

Authorities said the causes of two additional injuries had yet to be identified.

The highest number of cases was recorded in Dumalag, Dumarao, Pontevedra and Roxas City, with three injuries each.

Jamindan and Mambusao reported two cases each, while Ivisan, Panitan and Tapaz recorded one case each.

Provincial health officials reiterated their annual warning against the use of firecrackers, particularly under the influence of alcohol, citing the recurring spike in injuries during New Year festivities.