Camp BGen Simeon A Ola, Legazpi City – Police Regional Office 5 (PRO 5) confiscated 2, 772 illegal firecrackers during its two-day operations under “Oplan Boga,” conducted from December 29 to 30, 2024.
Among the seized items were 1,258 units of the makeshift device known as “boga,” a type of improvised cannon commonly associated with injuries and accidents during the holiday season. Additionally, authorities confiscated 1,514 other types of illegal firecrackers, including dangerous varieties such as kwiton, kwitis, poppop, baby rocket, and pili cracker.
These operations were part of PRO 5’s proactive efforts to ensure public safety and reduce firecracker-related injuries and incidents during the festive period. On December 31, 2024, all confiscated items were properly destroyed at Camp Ola in compliance with safety protocols and regulatory guidelines. Present during the activity were FSSUPT ACHILLES SANTIAGO, RD, BFP, ROV and MS. JULIE ANN GRANADINO, Regional Program Manager for Violence and Injury Prevention Program, DOH, CHD Bicol.
PBGEN ANDRE P DIZON, RD, PRO5, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “The safety and security of the public is our top priority. The intensified enforcement of ‘Oplan Boga’ underscores our commitment to protecting communities from harm caused by illegal firecrackers and other hazardous activities.”
In addition to these operations, PRO5 ramped up its information campaign by disseminating safety guidelines and warnings against the use of banned firecrackers. Coordination with local government units, barangay officials, and other stakeholders was also strengthened to ensure community support and compliance with the law.
As part of the safety campaign, PRO5 encourages the public to explore alternative ways to celebrate and create noise during the New Year festivities. These include using safe and creative options such as banging pots and pans, blowing party horns, or organizing small musical performances. Such practices ensure a lively and festive atmosphere without compromising safety or risking injuries caused by dangerous firecrackers.
“We urge everyone to prioritize safety and find innovative, family-friendly ways to celebrate the season. Let us work together to make this New Year memorable for the joy it brings, not for accidents or injuries,” said RD DIZON.
(Source: PNP Kasurog Bicol)