The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Friday destroyed P1 million worth of confiscated firecrackers in line with their “Ligtas Kapaskuhan (Safe Christmas)” 2019-2020 operations.

Police Brigadier General Debold Sinas, acting NCRPO director, lead the destruction of P1,040,874 worth of illegal firecrackers seized in Metro Manila.

NCRPO said the initiative is grounded on Presidential Memorandum Order No. 31, directing the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other concerned agencies to implement existing laws, rules and regulations on the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

Among items seized were Picolo, Super Lolo, Lolo Thunder/Atomic/Big Triangle, Pla-pla and other illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices  mentioned in Republic Act 7183.

This law regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devises in furtherance of public safety, order and national security, as well as the enhancement of the cultural traditions.

Police said 21 were arrested for illegal possession and selling of firecrackers.

Highest number of confiscation was by the Quezon City Police District with 909 firecrackers followed by Southern Police District with 846; Manila Police District with 358; Eastern Police District with 259; and Northern Police District with 20.

“I am saddened that despite the clear and constant reminder which we have communicated with the people of Metro Manila using all forms of media available, encouraging them to adhere to the existing laws, rules and regulations on the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, still, there are those who flagrantly disregard this friendly reminder. Hence, we are impelled to perform our mandate,” Sinas said.

Sinas said the intensified campaign against illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices is one of the reasons behind the safe and peaceful celebrations of the yuletide season and New Year in Metro Manila despite 162 people were injured. Ella Dionisio/DMS