The Department of Health, Regional Office No.XII headed by Director Teogenes F. Baluma, MDM, FPCHA, CESO III, conducted an Orientation Campaign on Iwas Paputok to different provinces and cities of Region XII in specified schedules with the theme " Mahalaga ang Buhay. Iwasan ang Paputok. Salubungin ang Bagong Taon ng Ligtas, Masaya at Puno ng Pag Asa." The activity was participated in by different Municipal Health Officers, Chief of Hospitals, Surveillance Officers, Local Government Units, Government and Private Health Institutions, Bureau of Fire Protection, DepEd School Principals, Guidance Counselors, District Supervisors, Media Partners and Legitimate Manufacturers and Dealers of Firecrackers.

The campaign aims to reduce incidence of firecracker-related injuries this yuletide season and to increase awareness among partners in health/stakeholders regarding vital information on Injury Prevention. Based on statistics, there was an increase of 31% reported cases from the past year to 2013. Majority of the victims were aged 10 years old & below and mostly male. Hence, the campaign seeks to educate the young and children on serious injuries which may result from the use of firecrackers.

Other ways to enjoy the Christmas and New Year's Eve is to use alternative noise- makers such as car horns, play sounds, drumming of metal kitchen wares and percussion instruments, and other non-firecracker and related items.

Let us welcome 2015 with HIGH FIVE OR GIVE ME FIVE greeting with complete fingers and zero injuries.