In Antique, the holiday season passed without any major accidents or indiscriminate gunfire, as reported by the Antique Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO). PDRRMO chief Broderick Train shared in a recent interview that the community enjoyed a peaceful Christmas and New Year, thanks to the diligent efforts of various government agencies involved in the PDRRM Council.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Antique District Engineering Office played a crucial role by setting up Lakbay Alalay assistance points across the province. These stations were manned by personnel who helped guide travelers and provided vehicle repair services when needed. Despite three minor vehicular incidents during the festive period, no serious injuries were reported, and all affected individuals received prompt medical attention and were discharged.
The proactive measures by the Antique Provincial Police Office (APPO) also contributed to the safety of the celebrations. Before Christmas, they seized 460 units of the prohibited boga, an improvised cannon, which significantly reduced the risk of firecracker-related injuries. According to the Antique Integrated Provincial Health Office, there were 18 reported injuries from fireworks, with seven specifically linked to the use of boga.
APPO Officer-in-Charge Lt. Col. Angelo Pueblos confirmed that the confiscated boga would be destroyed soon. He also noted that there were no instances of indiscriminate firing during the holidays, as police officers were required to surrender their firearms to their supply officers before taking leave. Additionally, civilian gun owners adhered to regulations and did not misuse their licensed firearms.