DUMAGUETE: No firecracker-related incidents were reported in Negros Oriental province during the New Year’s Eve celebration, authorities announced. The peaceful transition into the new year marked a significant achievement in public safety for the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO), confirmed that police stations across the province did not receive any reports of injuries caused by firecrackers and pyrotechnics as residents and visitors welcomed the New Year. This incident-free celebration highlights the success of local enforcement and community cooperation.

Despite the lack of incidents on New Year’s Eve itself, Polinar referenced a report from the Department of Health indicating that four individuals suffered minor burns in the days leading up to the celebration. The burns occurred in La Libertad and Guihulngan, with one case in each location, and two additional cases in Bais City. The victims were reportedly passersby who did not report the incidents to the police. Instead, the information was collected from the Rural Health Units where the injured parties received treatment.

In addition to the absence of firecracker-related injuries, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) reported no fire incidents linked to firecrackers and pyrotechnics, as stated by Fire Officer 2 Jason Pael from the Communications and Electronics Division. This further underscores the effectiveness of safety measures implemented throughout the province.

In a related effort to maintain safety, Polinar mentioned that illegal firecrackers, including Poppop, were destroyed on Tuesday morning after being confiscated from vendors. The province experienced only minor traffic incidents, and overall, the New Year’s celebration in Negros Oriental was marked by peace and order.