ILOILO City – Refrain from illegally discharging firearms. Avoid unauthorized firecrackers. Use safe alternatives to welcome the New Year. Stay vigilant against criminals.
These were the key reminders from the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) to ensure a peaceful and injury-free New Year, in line with the Department of Health’s (DOH) “Iwas Paputok” campaign.
PRO-6 director, Police Brigadier General Jack Wanky, emphasized these points on Monday, December 30, during the ceremonial destruction of confiscated and surrendered illegal firecrackers at Camp Delgado.
Noting past incidents of stray bullet injuries, he issued a stern warning against the illegal discharge of firearms.
“Firearm holders, legal or illegal, must refrain from being trigger-happy. Stray bullet incidents or illegal firearm discharges often lead to investigations targeting licensed gun owners in the vicinity,” Wanky said.
He urged responsible gun owners to report any illegal discharges to the nearest police stations.
Clear Message
Regarding firecrackers, as of December 29 the PRO-6 had confiscated 1,700 illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, including 426 boga, a makeshift cannon notorious for causing injuries.
“We hold this ceremonial destruction of illegal firecrackers to send a clear message to sellers and retailers that we are serious in our campaign in eradicating these illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices,” Wanly said.
Under Executive Order No. 28 and Republic Act No. 7183, the following firecrackers are banned: Watusi, Piccolo, Poppop, Five Star (big), Pla-Pla, Lolo Thunder, Giant Bawang, Giant Whistle Bomb, Special, Atomic Bomb, Atomic Triangle, Large-size Judas Belt, Goodbye De Lima, Hello Columbia, Goodbye Napoles, Mother Rockets, Kingkong, Kwiton, Super Lolo, Goodbye Bading, Goodbye Philippines, Bin Laden, Coke-in-Can, Pilbox, Kabasi, Tuna, and Goodbye Chismosa, including makeshift devices like boga.
“These dangerous materials can cause injuries or even fatalities, as history has shown. We do not want individuals hurt. All we want is to see the dawn of Year 2025 with family members complete and without injury,” Wanky said.
He specifically highlighted the dangers of boga, citing over 20 incidents involving the device in the region in recent days.
He proposed recommending a total ban on boga during the Peace and Order Council Meeting, urging local government units (LGUs) to legislate ordinances prohibiting its use.
Wanky encouraged the public to opt for safe and creative alternatives, such as using torotot (paper / plastic horns) or banging pots and pans, to create festive sounds without risking injury.
Crime Prevention Tips
The police also advised the public to stay vigilant against criminals, particularly during New Year celebrations.
Wanky reminded residents to secure their homes by locking doors and informing neighbors when leaving.
He further urged cooperation with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to prevent fires, which could endanger lives and property.
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, PRO-6 urges everyone to celebrate responsibly, ensuring that joy, not danger, rings in the year ahead./PN
