In a move to promote safer New Year’s Eve festivities, the Batangas Police Provincial Office (BPPO) conducted a public destruction of illegal firecrackers valued at over PHP735,000 in Batangas City on Monday, December 30, 2024. The operation was part of the ongoing ‘Ligtas Paskuhan’ campaign, which ran from December 1 to 26 and resulted in the seizure of firecrackers worth PHP415,635, along with additional items valued at PHP320,000 from the Regional Intelligence Division.
Acting Police Provincial Director Col. Jacinto Malinao, Jr., who oversaw the ceremonial destruction, emphasized that the crackdown on illegal fireworks would continue throughout the holiday season. He reported that since December 16, authorities have confiscated over 4,759 units of various illegal firecrackers, including piccolo, giant ‘bawang,’ whistle bombs, and improvised cannons known as ‘boga.’
Malinao also mentioned that legal actions are being pursued against individuals under Republic Act 7183, which governs the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices. He stressed the importance of permits for the legal sale of firecrackers in designated areas.
Despite some reported injuries, Malinao assured that the peace and order situation in Batangas remains stable. The police are actively monitoring the distribution of firecrackers, setting up checkpoints, and increasing visibility through patrols. They have also collaborated with local government units and schools to raise awareness about the risks associated with illegal fireworks, complemented by information campaigns and community outreach efforts.
The Provincial Health Office, led by Dr. Rosalie Masangkay, has called on residents to celebrate responsibly and consider the environmental impact of firecrackers. Masangkay highlighted the potential for serious injuries and long-term health issues, such as loss of limb function and severe facial pain, as well as the environmental damage caused by pollution from fireworks.