'Zero' fatal casualty in Central Luzon during New Year's Day celebration achieved
CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – Sixty-two firecracker victims during New Year’s Day celebration were reported in the whole Central Luzon.
The police however arrested two persons for violation of R.A. 7183 (An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devices).
Police Regional Office 3 Director Police Brigadier General Cesar R. Pasiwen at the same time said that no member of the Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines in the region was involved in indiscriminate firing during the eve and the actual celebration of New Year.
BGen Pasiwen noted that the ‘zero casualty’ could be attributed to the series of inspections conducted by the PRO3 command group and staff together with the different provincial/city police offices among firecracker manufacturers and stores.
The massive information drive and campaign initiated by the PNP together with the different government agencies on the need to regulate or ban the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices also contributed to the safe celebration of New Year.
The imposition of designated firecracker zones by the local government units complemented by the deployment of almost 2,000 PRO3 personnel also helped a lot in achieving ‘zero’ casualty during the celebration.
“I commend the entire Central police force for a job well done, putting aside their personal convenience and comfort in exchange for a peaceful, safe and injury-free Holiday celebration,” said Pasiwen.
“I would also like to thank the public for their continuous cooperation with us which immensely contributed to a safe merriment,” added Pasiwen.
(Liezle Basa Inigo)