By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
Philippine National Police acting chief PLt.Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed police chiefs to coordinate with local government units on the possible establishment of designated markets for firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials ahead of the New Year revelry.
Nartatez said the directive is aimed at strengthening public safety following reports from the Department of Health that there are now at least 28 firecracker-related injuries from Dec. 21 to 25, and the number is expected to further increase as the New Year approaches.
“The main purpose of this is proper regulation and public safety. By designating a specific area in every town or city where people could buy firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials, we can easily monitor and prevent the selling of illegal firecrackers,” Nartatez said in a statement Friday.
Police chiefs are tasked to work with LGUs in identifying locations that are considered safe, as well as the appropriate period for the sale of firecrackers.
Designated areas will have a visible police presence, in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), while firetrucks and emergency responders shall be placed on standby to immediately address any untoward incident.
Nartatez said centralized selling areas would help curb the sale of illegal firecrackers.
Meanwhile, PNP information chief and spokesperson, PBGen. Randulf Tuaño said that 23 persons were arrested due to selling of illegal fireworks while 47 were injured.
Ten incidents were recorded for indiscriminate firing involving ten suspects, seven of whom were arrested while three are still at large. Of the seven arrested, four were police.
Those arrested for indiscriminate firing happened during 336 police operations from Dec.16 to Dec. 26 at 7:00 a.m., while one died from a stray bullet.
“Ito ay nangyari sa NCRPO ‘yung death na naitala. Nangyari noong Dec. 25 madaling araw ng 12:50 a.m. halos mag 1:00 a.m. ito ay nangyari sa Tondo, Manila. Na-identify ang suspect diyan na at-large at kasalukuyan hot pursuit sa tao,” Tuaño told reporters in a press briefing on Friday.
Christmas celebration generally peaceful; public safety ops continue
Meanwhile, the PNP noted that the celebration of Christmas has so far been generally peaceful nationwide.
In a statement on Thursday, the PNP reported the peaceful and orderly celebration of the Christmas Eve Mass on Dec. 24, following the successful security coverage of the nine traditional dawn masses or Simbang Gabi held nationwide from Dec. 16 to 24.
Nartatez said police personnel were deployed in churches, transport hubs and key convergence areas to ensure the safety of churchgoers and the general public throughout the Christmas season.
“Masaya at payapa nating ipinagdiwang ang Bisperas ng Pasko. Wala tayong naitalang incident kaugnay ng mga misa, at ito ay bunga ng sama-samang disiplina ng mamamayan at maagap na presensya ng ating kapulisan,” Nartatez said.
“Christmas reminds us of the values that matter most—compassion, humility, and service to others. These are the same values that guide the PNP as a community-oriented, family-based, and God-centered organization, working closely with the people we serve,” he stressed.
He added that the orderly conduct of the nine dawn masses reflected the public’s cooperation and the dedication of police personnel who remained on duty during the holidays.
“While many Filipinos spend this season with their loved ones, our police officers remain on duty across the country, doing their part to keep communities safe and peaceful. Their quiet sacrifices allow families to celebrate Christmas with confidence and peace of mind,” Nartatez said.
He also expressed his gratitude to church leaders, local government units, force multipliers, and volunteers who worked closely with the PNP to maintain peace and order.
The PNP assured the public that heightened police visibility and public safety operations will continue throughout the remaining holiday season, including the New Year celebrations.
The PNP reiterated its commitment to uphold public safety in line with Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman, especially during significant national and religious occasions.
“As we mark this holy season, the PNP renews its commitment to serve with integrity, professionalism, and respect for human rights. May the spirit of Christmas strengthen our faith, bring families closer together, and inspire unity and peace in our communities,” said Nartatez.
