Central Visayas health officials claimed success in their anti-firecrackers drive during the New Year revelries as firecracker-related injuries in the region was down from 48 cases last year to 45 this year.
But Dr. Susana Madarietta, Department of Health (DOH) 7 director, said she was disappointed that the number of stray bullets cases increased from five last year to eight this year.
Madarietta appealed to gun owners to refrain from firing their guns during the New Year revelries.
Police officials said it is difficult to pinpoint the source of the stray bullets, especially if these came from unlicensed firearms.
Madarietta, however, said she noted the continuing decline in the number of firecracker-related injuries.