In a significant move against illegal fireworks, the Pangasinan police, led by Director Col. Rollyfer Capoquian, destroyed 1,381 illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnics on Monday at Camp Gov. Antonio Sison in Lingayen. The items, which included 848 firecrackers and 533 boga (improvised cannons), were seized between December 21 and 29. The Department of Health-Ilocos Region (DOH-1) has identified boga as the primary cause of fireworks-related injuries.
Col. Capoquian emphasized the ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures, stating that police stations have been instructed to intensify inspections of illegal firecrackers. He urged the public to opt for safer alternatives to celebrate the New Year, highlighting the health risks associated with traditional fireworks.
From December 21 to 29, DOH-1 reported 37 fireworks-related injuries in Pangasinan, a 48% increase from the 25 injuries recorded during the same period the previous year. In response to the rising incidents, the police have also activated Task Force Baywalk to safeguard beachgoers during the traditional post-New Year’s Eve beach gatherings.
Since December 16, the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office has set up 103 police assistance desks across the province to manage the increased activity during the Christmas season.