The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a tragic fatality from a stray bullet during the recent holiday celebrations, highlighting the persistent danger of celebratory gunfire.
Holiday Season Toll: One Life Lost
Acting PNP chief, Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., disclosed the sobering statistics in a press conference on Monday, January 5, 2026. The police force recorded 15 separate stray bullet incidents across multiple regions from December 16, 2025, to January 5, 2026.
These incidents resulted in the death of one individual and injuries to three others. The regions affected include the National Capital Region (NCR), Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Central and Western Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Davao, Soccsksargen, and the Bangsamoro region.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The sole fatality occurred in Barangay 120, Tondo, Manila, within the National Capital Region. The victim was struck by a stray bullet during a drinking session shortly before midnight on Christmas Day, December 25.
Meanwhile, the three injured persons were from the Calabarzon, Davao, and Bangsamoro regions. Lieutenant General Nartatez confirmed that investigations to identify and apprehend those responsible for firing the stray bullets are actively ongoing.
Indiscriminate Firing Arrests Include Police Officers
In a related crackdown, the PNP also documented 18 cases of indiscriminate firing during the same period. These incidents were recorded in NCR, Ilocos, Cagayan, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Bicol, Western Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Caraga, Cordillera, and the Negros Island regions.
This reckless behavior led to two injuries in the Western Visayas and Cordillera areas. Enforcement efforts resulted in the arrest of 19 individuals for indiscriminate firing. Notably, among those apprehended were four police officers, underscoring the PNP's internal disciplinary actions alongside its public safety campaign.
The data serves as a grim annual reminder of the lethal consequences of celebratory gunfire and indiscriminate shooting, prompting continued calls for responsible celebration and stricter enforcement of firearm laws.
