PNP appeals for safe New Year revelry as firecracker injuries starts to rise
The Philippine National Police (PNP) appealed to the public to refrain from using firecrackers as the number of injuries related to their use has already reached 31 two days before the New Year revelry.
Among those who were injured were a 12-year old boy and a 16-year old boy both from Pangasinan.
The 12-year old boy from San Carlos City was wounded on the left hand while he and his playmates were about to light an improvised cannon.
The 16-year old from Manaoag town suffered injuries on the face also for using an improvised cannon, locally called boga.
PNP chief information officer Col. Redrico Maranan said they continue to intensify the campaign against the selling of illegal firecrackers.
As of Dec. 28, he said a total of 23 people were already arrested while more than 5,600 prohibited firecrackers were also confiscated.
Maranan also repeated the warning of PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, Jr. against firearms owners as the police reported one injury from stray bullet due to indiscriminate firing.
In Batangas, a police sergeant was arrested after he was accused of firing his service firearm in Rosario town.
"To our Police officers, I am once again reminding you that administrative sanctions will be filed against those who will be caught in unofficial use or firing their firearms indiscriminately. Hence, as PNP members, we should live with our mandate: to protect and save lives at all times," said Azurin.
"To all other gun holders, be responsible owners and do not fire your guns indiscriminately for the law will be swift to go after you. Let us welcome the new year safely and peacefully," he added.