Philippine Police Crack Down on Illegal Fireworks, Seize P2.5 Million Worth

In a bid to ensure a safer New Year’s Eve, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has seized over 535,000 illegal firecrackers valued at more than PHP2.5 million. PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo reported that by 6 a.m. on Tuesday, the police had confiscated 535,960 illegal fireworks and arrested 34 people involved in their distribution. Additionally, the police documented 18 incidents of indiscriminate firing, leading to the apprehension of 13 individuals. The crackdown also revealed four injuries from stray bullets and 172 injuries related to firecrackers. Fajardo urged police officers to avoid using their service firearms during celebrations and to concentrate on their duties. In Central Luzon, Police Regional Office chief Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan announced the establishment of 261 community firecracker zones and 133 fireworks display zones across the region. These zones are distributed as follows: Aurora with 15 firecracker zones and 2 fireworks display areas; Bataan with 5 firecracker zones and 5 fireworks display areas; Bulacan with 85 firecracker zones and 46 fireworks display areas; Nueva Ecija with 28 firecracker zones and 27 fireworks display areas; Pampanga with 24 firecracker zones and 15 fireworks display areas; Tarlac with 64 firecracker zones and 9 fireworks display areas; Zambales with 40 firecracker zones and 27 fireworks display areas; and Angeles City with 2 fireworks display areas. Maranan encouraged the public to steer clear of illegal fireworks to prevent injuries and suggested alternative ways to celebrate the New Year.