The Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7) reported that the New Year celebrations across the Central Visayas region were peaceful.

PRO7 Officer-in-Command PBrig.Gen. Roy B. Parena emphasized that thorough inspections, increased vigilance from law enforcement officers, and the meticulous preparation of the police force played a significant role in maintaining safety and order during the celebrations, ensuring a smooth transition into the new year.

As part of the ongoing safety initiative “Ligtas PAskuhan 2024,” incident monitoring from December 31, 2024, to January 1, 2025, revealed only four firecracker-related incidents during the festive period.

Among these incidents, three separate injuries were reported in Barangay Looc, Mandaue City; Babag 2, Lapu-Lapu City; and Balisong, Argao, Cebu and one casualty in Asturias, Cebu.

A 23-year-old individual succumbed to injuries sustained from a firecracker explosion in Barangay San Roque, Asturias, Cebu, shortly after midnight. The victim ignited a firecracker known as a “bombshell,” which failed to explode initially. When he returned to check on it, the firecracker suddenly exploded, causing injuries to his face. He was taken to an infirmary clinic but was pronounced dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Furthermore, PRO7 documented three incidents involving the illegal sale and use of prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices in Danao City and Lapu-Lapu City on December 31, 2024.

“The New Year celebrations in Central Visayas were peaceful, largely due to the strategies implemented by PRO7, along with local support. These actions included thorough inspections and the distribution of safety guidelines to the public, which helped maintain peace in the region,” said Parena.

He also noted that this approach serves as a benchmark for enhancing safety at future events. (PRO7-PIO)