Report firecracker ban violators – PNP

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) yesterday asked the public to report neighbors who will use prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices during the Yuletide season.

PNP spokesman Brig. Bernard Banac said people should not hesitate to report to authorities those who refuse to follow the government’s call to shun banned firecrackers.

“Tumawag tayo ng barangay officials dahil alam natin na ito ay nakakapagdulot ng pagkaabala,” he said in a radio interview.

The PNP has ordered a crackdown on prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices to reduce cases of firecracker-related deaths and injuries during Christmas and New Year’s Eve festivities.

Instead of risking injuries, Banac said the public should watch fireworks display in their communities.

“Huwag na lang gumamit ng mga illegal na paputok para maganda ang ating Pasko,” he said.

Data from the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) showed a decrease in the cases of firecracker-related injuries.

In January, the FEO recorded 307 incidents, fewer than the 449 cases in January last year. The number was lower than the 929 cases in January 2016.

PNP on 21-day alert

Meanwhile, the PNP yesterday went on a 21-day full alert status until Jan. 5, 2020 to maximize police visibility and preventive patrol operations.

Banac assured the public that there is no security threat, which could disrupt the holiday festivities.

“Wala naman tayong tinitingnan na banta sa seguridad pero kinakailangan natin ng maximum police presence,” he said.

At least 69,300 police officers were deployed to secure transportation hubs, commercial establishments and other public places of convergence.