The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO-3) has released its official report on the 2026 New Year celebrations across Central Luzon, revealing a total of 113 holiday-related incidents. The data, current as of January 2, 2026, shows a significant focus on public safety enforcement during the festivities.
Breakdown of Incidents and Injuries
Out of the 113 recorded incidents, 29 were directly related to firecrackers. These cases resulted in 31 individuals sustaining injuries. Authorities confirmed that, fortunately, no deaths were reported in connection with the New Year revelries. The regional police also highlighted a positive outcome regarding gun violence, reporting zero victims of stray bullets during the monitoring period.
Police Operations and Arrests
PRO-3's proactive measures led to several enforcement actions. Police arrested three suspects in connection with cases of indiscriminate firing. During these operations, law enforcement officers confiscated five firearms. The report specifically noted that no personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) or other uniformed services were involved in the irresponsible discharge of firearms.
In a major crackdown on prohibited pyrotechnics, authorities seized 50,994 pieces of illegal firecrackers. This massive haul included 448 powerful 'boga' cannons, which are notorious for causing serious injuries.
Attributing Factors and Official Statement
Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., the Director of PRO-3, credited the overall statistical outcome to a combination of heightened police visibility and strong community cooperation. He stated that these efforts were executed in strict alignment with the PNP Focused Agenda, which prioritizes preventive policing and active engagement with the public to ensure safer communities during high-risk periods like the New Year celebration.
The report underscores a continued push by Central Luzon police to minimize the dangers traditionally associated with year-end festivities through rigorous enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
