ILOILO City — In response to a viral video showing youths engaging in hazardous firecracker activities, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) launched an initiative to curb the dangers posed by reckless firecracker use among minors.
The video, which circulated widely online, captured young individuals using firecrackers at the boundary of Barangay Desamparados, Jaro district and Barangay Bakhaw, Mandurriao district, prompting urgent action from local authorities.
Identifying involved individuals
Under the leadership of Police Colonel Kim Legada, the ICPO has directed concerned police stations and units to promptly identify the minors featured in the video.
“This identification process is essential not only to hold those involved accountable but also to understand the broader implications of risky behavior among youth,” Legada said.
Law enforcement personnel are working closely with barangay officials and the parents of the minors to gather information and ensure strict compliance with local firecracker regulations.
“Firecrackers can seriously injure or even kill, especially when recklessly handled by minors. This is not a game,” Legada stressed, highlighting the serious risks associated with the activity.
On Monday, December 29, Desamparados’ Punong Barangay Nestor Lobaton confirmed the identities of six resident minors involved in the incident, which occurred at the Esplanade on December 26. The minors and their parents were summoned to the barangay hall on Monday morning, with a social worker present. Barangay tanods will monitor the area to prevent a recurrence.
Police Captain Val Cambel, head of Police Station 10, said officers responded to reports of minors using firecrackers in the area on December 27. The youths fled upon seeing the police, but initial investigations indicate they may reside in Calubihan, San Vicente, Desamparados, Jaro, and Taft North in Mandurriao.
Prevention and accountability
In light of the incident, the ICPO is taking a multifaceted approach combining prevention, intervention, and accountability.
“Our primary objective is to prevent harm and ensure the safety of our children. We will not hesitate to hold parents and guardians accountable should any negligence be discovered,” Legada said.
The initiative aims not only to address immediate dangers but also to promote a culture of safety and responsibility during the festive season.
Enhanced patrols and community engagement
To strengthen safety measures, police units have increased visibility and patrolling in residential neighborhoods as part of the Philippine National Police’s “Ligtas Paskuhan” (Safe Christmas) campaign. The program seeks to raise awareness of firecracker regulations and ensure holiday celebrations are conducted safely.
The ICPO has launched a thorough investigation into the incident, collecting detailed information about the individuals involved, the circumstances leading to the activity, and overall community compliance with firecracker safety laws.
Through these efforts, the ICPO aims to safeguard public safety, protect the youth, and prevent potential tragedies during a season traditionally marked by heightened firecracker usage./PN
