ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has recorded 14 firecracker-related incidents across Western Visayas from December 16 to 28, with minors accounting for the majority of the victims.
Based on police records, seven of the injured were minors who sustained eye injuries after using boga, an improvised and highly dangerous device that is strictly prohibited. The remaining cases involved firecrackers such as triangle, kwitis, and whistle bombs, resulting in injuries to the arms and fingers.
Police said many of the incidents could have been prevented through proper parental supervision and strict observance of safety regulations.
During intensified operations from December 16 to 26, PRO-6 confiscated 81 units of boga and 7,336 pieces of various unlabeled firecrackers in different parts of the region. Authorities said the seizures underscore the police force’s continued efforts to protect the public, especially children, from firecracker-related hazards during the holiday season.
PRO-6 regional director Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan strongly warned parents and guardians against allowing minors to handle firecrackers.
“The safety of our children is everyone’s responsibility. Firecrackers, especially those that are illegal or improvised, can cause serious injuries or even permanent damage,” Ligan said. “A moment of carelessness can turn a celebration into a tragedy.”
He added that PRO-6 will continue to strictly enforce existing laws regulating the sale, possession, and use of firecrackers. Local police units have been directed to sustain information campaigns, inspections, and confiscation operations to prevent further incidents.
PRO-6 also appealed to the public to prioritize safety over celebration and to immediately report the 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,” Ligan said./PN
