The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported a "generally peaceful" nationwide celebration as the country welcomed 2026, citing "zero casualties" and no recorded index crimes during the New Year festivities.
According to the PNP’s assessment, no deaths were recorded and no incidents involving index crimes—such as murder, homicide, rape, robbery, theft, physical injuries, and carnapping—were logged during the overnight celebrations across the country.
This was reported despite a total of 843 firecracker-related incidents, which resulted in 183 injuries recorded from 5 a.m. on New Year’s Eve until 11 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
In a statement, the PNP said police operations led to the arrest of 26 individuals and the seizure of 96,721 illegal firecracker items.
Authorities also reported two cases of indiscriminate firing, which resulted in one person injured. Two firearms were confiscated and one suspect was arrested.
The PNP emphasized that "no stray bullet incidents were recorded nationwide."
PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said five of the injured individuals were victims of three fire incidents linked to the use of pyrotechnics.
Camp Crame maintained its “zero casualty” report, despite a separate media report from DZRH that one individual died in Longos, Malabon after a motorcycle crash allegedly involving a man who had attended a New Year’s Eve drinking session.
Meanwhile, the PNP noted that based on official police data, only two road crash incidents were recorded during the period, with four individuals injured.
Aside from preventive deployments, sustained police operations also resulted in the confiscation of 61 loose firearms and the arrest of 132 individuals for violations related to illegal drugs, illegal gambling, and outstanding warrants.
Acting PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the early preparation and vigilance of police units, which he said contributed to the reduced number of incidents during a major national event.
"These figures show that vigilance and early police action can significantly reduce risks during major celebrations," Nartatez said.
"Ang ligtas na pagsalubong sa 2026 ay bunga ng paghahanda at pakikiisa ng mamamayan," Nartatez added. "Patuloy naming paiigtingin ang aming pagbabantay para sa kapayapaan ng bawat komunidad."
