By CESAR JOLITO III
The Police Regional Office in the Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) carried out simultaneous destruction of thousands of confiscated firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, capping its intensified holiday enforcement campaign aimed at protecting the public from firework-related hazards.
A total of 23,111 firecrackers, with an estimated value of P437,778, were destroyed during the ceremonial destruction activity at the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) Grandstand at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City’s Barangay Estefania yesterday.
NOCPPO accounted for the largest share, with 16,002 firecrackers valued at P305,022.
The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office confiscated 5,870 firecrackers worth P63,216, while the Bacolod City Police Office seized 1,101 firecrackers amounting to P69,260.
The Siquijor Police Provincial Office secured 72 firecrackers valued at P280, and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion in NIR confiscated an additional 33 pieces.
Authorities said the move ensures that seized fireworks are permanently removed from circulation and no longer pose a risk to communities.
The coordinated activity involved police units from Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bacolod City, in partnership with local government units, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and other stakeholders.
The prohibited items were seized through sustained anti-illegal firecracker operations, including inspections, checkpoints and monitoring activities conducted before and during the holiday season.
Police said these efforts were intended to prevent injuries, fires and other incidents commonly linked to the illegal sale and use of fireworks.
Destruction activities were conducted in designated and secured areas within police facilities, following established safety and environmental protocols to ensure the protection of personnel and nearby communities.
PRO-NIR officials emphasized that the operation reflects the police force’s continued commitment to strict law enforcement and public safety, particularly during high-risk periods such as holidays.
They also highlighted the importance of strong collaboration with local governments, the BFP, and community stakeholders in preventing accidents and promoting responsible behavior./CJ, WDJ