The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday, Dec. 24, reported that it recorded four new fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) which pushed the total number of victims to 12.

Based on its FWRI #3, DOH said the four injuries were recorded from 6 AM of Dec. 23 to 5:59 AM of Dec. 24.

Of the four new injuries, an 11-year-old and 17-year-old males used piccolo and boga.

“Kasama sa mga bagong kaso na iniulat ngayon ang isang 23 taong gulang na lalaki at isang 49 taong gulang na babae na gumamit ng kwitis - isang legal at regulated na paputok - sa bahay,” it added.

The health department urged mayors, barangay captains, and leaders from the private sector to organize community fireworks displays in their respective areas as an alternative to dangerous fireworks.

“Ang mga community fireworks display ay maaaring magbigay ng mas matagal, propesyonal, at mas ligtas na mga palabas. Lubos na pinahahalagahan ng mga tao ang mga pinuno na nag-oorganisa ng mga ito,” it said.

DOH said it is safer for Filipinos to enjoy fireworks with their families, loved ones, and friends from a distance.

"Magtulungan tayo para sa #BagongPilipinas kung saan #BawatBuhayMahalaga at nababawasan ang pinsala mula sa paputok,” the health department furthered.