SPD seizes more than P600,000 worth of illegal firecrackers
The Southern Police District (SPD) on Wednesday, Jan. 3, announced the confiscation of P669,827 worth of illegal firecrackers in its areas of responsibility (AORs) as part of its efforts in mitigating the number of fireworks-related injuries (FWRIs) and the use, manufacture, and distribution of illegal firecrackers in southern Metro Manila.

"The confiscated items included, 20 pieces of Watusi, 7 rims, 55 boxes & 1560 pieces of piccolo, 402 pieces of Poppop, 13 packs and 33,807 pieces of five-star, 1 pack & 546 pieces of pla-pla, four pieces of bawang, 78 whistle bombs, 34 pieces of the atomic bomb (Super Lolo), 33 belts of large size Judas Belt and 135 pieces of Mother Rocket," the SPD said.
"This successful operation is a testament to SPD's commitment to maintaining public safety and upholding the laws regulating the use of illegal firecrackers. The confiscated items pose serious risks to public safety and could lead to accidents if not handled properly," it added.
Injuries
Meanwhile, the SPD said a total of 46 FWRIs were recorded during the New Year's Eve celebration.
"Among the injured, one individual required special care and was promptly transported to PGH. Additionally, five were admitted to the Las Piñas General Hospital, one to Premier Hospital, two to Ospital ng Parañaque II, eight to Ospital ng Parañaque I, 27 to Pasay City General Hospital and two at Ospital ng Muntinlupa," SPD OIC Brig. Gen. Mark Pespes said.
"The injuries were a result of the use of firecrackers, including 5-star, kwitis, Judas' Belt, Small Whistle Bomb, Goodbye Philippines, Fountain, Whistle Bomb, Bawang, Kingkong, Bin Laden, and Trompillo. Southern Police District emphasized the importance of adhering to firecracker safety guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future," he added.
Pespes lauded all frontliners who promptly attended to those injured during the celebration and urged the public to prioritize safety at all times.