More than 10,000 illegal fireworks and pyrotechnic devices were destroyed by the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPO), in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), as part of an intensified public safety campaign ahead of the holiday season.

The ceremonial destruction was conducted on December 27 at the Pangasinan PPO headquarters in Lingayen. Authorities destroyed a total of 10,806 pieces of confiscated fireworks seized from various parts of the province during ongoing enforcement operations.

Also destroyed were 100 “boga” and other materials used in the manufacture of fireworks, with an estimated value of ₱87,278.

In a statement from Pangasinan Police Director PCOL Arbel Mercullo, read by PLTCOL Marceliano Desamito Jr., deputy provincial director for administration, the activity was described as a clear stand against the dangers posed by illegal fireworks, particularly during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The police said the destruction underscores their commitment to preventing injuries and property damage linked to fireworks use.

Data from the Department of Health – Region 1 showed a 17.8 percent increase in fireworks-related injuries from 2024 to 2025 compared to the previous year.

In response, police authorities said they continue to coordinate closely with local government units and other agencies to accelerate the confiscation of illegal fireworks before the New Year.