Authorities seized an estimated P3 million worth of illegal firecrackers and materials used for their production during a police operation in Barangay Bigaa, Cabuyao City, on Friday, December 5.

RH Benjie Alde Antioquia reports eight workers were arrested while one minor was rescued and placed under the care of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWD).

According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), operatives from the Regional Intelligence Division 4A (RID 4A), Regional Civil Security Unit 4A, Regional EOD K9, Technical Support Company, and the Laguna and Cabuyao City Police Stations executed a search warrant issued by the RTC Lucena City at around 11:40 a.m.

The operation targeted a compound with the reported paraphernalia as well as a lead suspect known by an alias “Evan”, who was not present during the raid.

Inside the compound, authorities discovered a large stockpile of materials for making firecrackers and other explosive devices.

The arrested individuals, all adult workers, are now in the custody of the Cabuyao City Police Station for documentation and inquest proceedings. The rescued minor has been turned over to the CSWD for proper care.

The suspects are facing charges for violating Republic Act 7183, which prohibits the illegal manufacture, distribution, and sale of firecrackers, a law strictly enforced especially ahead of the holiday season.