Caloocan: Police and health officials have declared the recent campaign against illegal firecrackers in the Negros Island Region a success, with minimal injuries reported during the holiday season.

According to Philippines News Agency, Col. Criscente Tiguelo, director of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, highlighted that there were 30 firecracker-related incidents in the province, none of which resulted in amputations. During a recent event at the NOrPPO headquarters in Barangay Agan-an, Sibulan, Tiguelo led the disposal of confiscated firecrackers and improvised devices, valued at PHP150,000. He attributed the campaign's success to the cooperation of local government units, partner agencies, and the disciplined community.

Adrian Hort Ramos, assistant regional director of the Department of Health-NIR, noted the success of the multisectoral "Operation Ligtas Christmas," emphasizing public safety as a top priority during celebrations. He praised the unity and coordination with the PNP, local governments, and stakeholders in strengthening the campaign against illegal firecrackers, highlighting the shared responsibility of protecting lives.

The DOH-NIR reported 155 firecracker-related injuries in the region from December 21, with Negros Occidental recording 118 cases, Bacolod City 6, Negros Oriental 30, and Siquijor 1. Four amputations occurred in Negros Occidental. Injuries included blast and burn injuries, and eye injuries, with or without amputation.

Additionally, 600 road injuries were reported in the NIR, with Negros Occidental logging 334, Bacolod City 12, Negros Oriental 173, and Siquijor 81. Gov. Manuel Sagarbarria, through a message read by retired Brig. Gen. Constantino Barot, expressed gratitude for the campaign's success during the holiday season, ensuring a peaceful start to the new year.