Manila: Philippine National Police acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has instructed police chiefs to collaborate with local government units (LGUs) in establishing designated markets for firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials in preparation for the upcoming New Year celebrations. Nartatez emphasized that this initiative aims to bolster public safety amid rising firecracker-related injuries.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Health reported at least 28 injuries associated with firecrackers from December 21 to 25, with expectations of an increase as the New Year approaches. Nartatez stated, "The main purpose of this is proper regulation and public safety. By designating a specific area in every town or city where people could buy firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials, we can easily monitor and prevent the selling of illegal firecrackers."

Police chiefs have been tasked with collaborating with LGUs to identify safe locations and appropriate sale periods for firecrackers. These designated areas will feature a visible police presence, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection, and will have firetrucks and emergency responders on standby to address any incidents.

Nartatez believes that centralized selling areas will help reduce the sale of illegal firecrackers. Meanwhile, PNP information chief and spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tua±o reported that 23 individuals have been arrested for selling illegal fireworks, and 47 people have sustained injuries.

Additionally, ten incidents of indiscriminate firing were recorded, involving ten suspects. Seven suspects have been arrested, including four police officers, while three remain at large. Tua±o noted that one person died from a stray bullet on December 25 in Tondo, Manila, where the suspect remains at large, and a hot pursuit is ongoing.