PRO-6 logs 14 firecracker cases, warns parents

By Jennifer P. Rendon

For nearly two weeks, Police Regional Office 6 recorded 14 firecracker-related incidents across Western Visayas.

PRO-6 said most of the victims were minors.

From Dec. 16–28, PRO-6 recorded seven minors who suffered eye injuries after using “boga,” an improvised bamboo or PVC pipe cannon commonly used during New Year celebrations.

The remaining incidents involved firecrackers such as triangle, kwitis, and whistle bombs, resulting in injuries to arms and fingers.

Brig. Gen. Josefina Ligan, Western Visayas police director, said the injuries could have been prevented through proper parental supervision and strict adherence to safety regulations.

From Dec. 16–26, PRO-6 intensified operations, resulting in the confiscation of 81 units of boga and 7,336 pieces of various unlabeled firecrackers across the region.

Ligan said the accomplishment reflects PRO-6’s sustained efforts to protect the public, particularly children, from firecracker-related hazards.

But as she reported PRO-6’s enforcement results, Ligan also warned parents and guardians about their responsibility to ensure the safety of their children.

“Firecrackers, especially those that are illegal or improvised, can cause serious injuries or even permanent damage. Parents and guardians must be vigilant and ensure their minors do not handle these dangerous devices,” she said.

Ligan said “a moment of carelessness can turn a celebration into a tragedy—let us all work together to keep our children safe this holiday season.”

PRO-6 reiterated that it will continue to strictly enforce existing laws regulating the sale, possession, and use of firecrackers.

Local police units will maintain information drives, inspections, and confiscation operations to prevent further incidents.

Ligan urged the public to prioritize safety over celebration and to report immediately any illegal sale or use of firecrackers in their communities.

“Celebrations should be joyful, not tragic. Parental guidance and community cooperation are vital in keeping our children safe,” she said.