LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – The Police Regional Office – Cordillera reported that the holiday season in the Cordillera region has been generally peaceful.
PRO-Cor Regional Director Police Chief Superintendent Elmo Francis Sarona said that despite reports of firecracker related injuries and cases of indiscriminate firing, the Cordillera region was peaceful during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Records from the Department of Health Cordillera show that there were 16 injuries from December 21, 2016 up to January 3, 2017 due to firecrackers, pyrotechnic devices and related activities.
Two cases of indiscriminate firing were recorded this year and among the arrested suspects were a retired police officer and member of the Philippine Army in Kalinga.
Baguio City Police Office City Director PSSupt. Ramil Saculles reported that the BCPO is conducting investigation on an alleged stray bullet incident in Kias, Baguio City.
Sarona attributed the lesser fireworks and fire cracker related injuries to the aggressive operations and the information, education and communication campaign against the use of fireworks and fire crackers and other pyrotechnic materials and indiscriminate firing among the PNP and AFP personnel as well as the other private gun holders and enthusiasts during the holidays revelry.
“This noteworthy improvement can be attributed to the full force deployment of personnel during the New Year revelry and the early information operation against the patronization of firecrackers and pyro technique devices, indiscriminate firing and crime prevention tips conducted by every unit of offices in collaboration with other government agencies.”
He added that the non-issuance of permit by the different local government units to sell and distribute firecrackers contributed significantly in the safe and orderly celebration of the Yuletide season.
Sarona said that the public is now more vigilant with the effects of the use of fire crackers and fireworks so more people adhered to the call of the various government agencies to use other means of merry-making instead.
Sarona also noted the zero incident of indiscriminate firing among the policemen. (JDP/RMC- PIA CAR)