CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna – The Police Regional Office 4-A destroyed prohibited firecrackers valued at P1.4 million seized in the Southern Tagalog region from Dec. 18 to 30.
POLICE destroy confiscated illegal firecrackers worth P1.4 million on Monday, Dec. 30, in Camp Vicente Lim, Laguna. (Photo via Danny Estacio)
PRO 4-A Director Police Brig. Gen. Kenneth Paul Lucas said they confiscated 15,825 assorted firecrackers and 3,786 “boga” or improvised cannon.
Lucas said these were recovered as a result of inspections and operations against unlicensed sellers and manufacturers and community engagement through extensive public information drives and partnerships with local government units that heightened public awareness about the dangers of illegal firecrackers and encouraged safer celebration practices.
“Our relentless efforts have resulted in the arrest and filing of charges for violation of RA 7183 or the Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and Other Pyrotechnic Devices against individuals involved in the illegal firecracker trade,” said Lucas.
Lucas also said that fireworks-related incidents in Calabarzon from Dec. 18 to 30 have significantly dropped compared to the same period last year from 273 to 15.
“This drastic decrease in incidents shows the effectiveness of our efforts and the invaluable cooperation of our communities. We thank everyone who has supported this campaign by choosing safety and reporting illegal activities. Our monitoring and operations continue as the New Year’s Eve approaches,” Lucas added.
Lucas urged the people to support community fireworks displays organized by local government units and report any illegal firecracker activities through its hotlines and social media platforms.