DOH renews warning vs firecracker injuries

MANILA, Philippines - Anticipating the yearly rise in injuries during the Christmas and New Year revelry just around the corner, posters discouraging the use of firecrackers were put up in government hospitals. Radio dzBB's Sam Nielsen on Monday reported that in eastern Metro Manila, posters showing gruesome photos of firecracker victims were posted along the halls of the Amang Rodriguez Medical Center in Marikina City. "Ngayong Bagong Taon, gusto mo ba ng disgrasya? Huwag magpaputok (This New Year, do you want to be a victim of a disaster? Don't light firecrackers)," said the posters, most of which were posted in the hospital's emergency room. The report cited DOH statistics indicating the highest incidence of firecracker-related incidents traditionally occurs between Dec. 20 and Jan. 2. Government hospitals have been placed on alert to prepare for possible firecracker-related incidents during the long holidays. Meanwhile, the Manila Police District vowed to crack down anew this year on the controversial "boga," a loud noise-making device made of PVC pipes. Radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported that MPD head Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales cited the danger to life and limb caused by the device. The "boga" had been the subject of a crackdown in recent years due to the loud noise it makes. Several street children had been noted to use the "boga" as a musical instrument during this year's Christmas season. On the other hand, Rosales cited reports reaching him that there are new variations of the "boga," including an "automatic" version that lets out successive blasts. - GMANews.TV