A woman has died after being hit by a stray bullet, while 47 others were injured due to firecracker-related incidents less than a week before the New Year, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

According to a report by Edniel Parrosa, the incidents were recorded from December 16 to the morning of December 26. PNP spokesperson PBGen. Randulf Tuano said the fatal stray bullet incident occurred on Christmas Day in Barangay 120, Tondo, Manila. Witnesses said the gunfire came from a neighboring barangay during a drinking session, and the suspect remains at large.

The PNP has monitored 10 cases of indiscriminate firing nationwide, with seven suspects arrested, four of whom are members of the police force. Camp Crame warned that commanders may face command responsibility if such cases are not resolved within 36 hours.

Meanwhile, Acting PNP Chief PLtGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered police chiefs to coordinate with local governments on the possible establishment of centralized firecracker selling areas to allow stricter inspection amid the rising number of firework-related injuries ahead of the 2026 New Year celebrations.