In a major post-holiday safety operation, the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has successfully destroyed a massive haul of illegal pyrotechnics. The simultaneous destruction of confiscated firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, with a total value of P437,778, was carried out across the region on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
Coordinated Destruction Across Police Units
The large-scale disposal activity was executed simultaneously by multiple police offices. The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo), the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (Norppo), the Siquijor Police Provincial Office (SPPO), and the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) all took part. They worked in close coordination with local government units, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and other key stakeholders following the conclusion of enforcement operations during the recent holiday season.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, the operation led to the confiscation of a staggering 23,111 firecrackers. This figure represents the results of sustained and coordinated enforcement efforts aimed at curbing the illegal trade and use of hazardous materials.
Breakdown of Confiscated Items
The confiscated items were seized from various areas under PRO-NIR's jurisdiction. The breakdown of the haul is as follows:
- Nocppo: 16,002 firecrackers valued at P305,022.
- Norppo: 5,870 firecrackers worth P63,216.
- SPPO: 72 firecrackers valued at P280.
- BCPO: 1,101 firecrackers amounting to P69,260.
- Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB)-NIR: 33 firecrackers.
Proactive Enforcement for Public Safety
Malong explained that the illegal items were seized through a combination of sustained anti-illegal firecracker operations, targeted inspections, and strategic checkpoints. These measures were all implemented with the primary goal of preventing injuries, fires, and other dangers linked to the unauthorized sale and use of prohibited fireworks.
The destruction was conducted in designated, secure areas within the respective police offices. The process strictly followed established safety and environmental protocols to ensure the protection of police personnel, the general public, and surrounding communities.
"This coordinated effort underscores PRO-NIR’s commitment to proactive enforcement, public safety, and the responsible disposal of hazardous materials," Malong stated.
Continued Commitment to Community Safeguarding
Looking ahead, PRO-NIR remains steadfast in its mission to protect communities. The organization continues to leverage the active support of local government units, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and community stakeholders to strengthen and synchronize its efforts.
Malong emphasized that this vital collaboration enables the police force to proactively anticipate hazards, respond swiftly to potential threats, and uphold the highest standards of public safety.
"Together, these initiatives reflect PRO-NIR’s unwavering commitment to preventing injuries, fires, and other untoward incidents, while promoting a culture of lawfulness, responsibility, and community vigilance throughout Negros Island," she concluded.
