By William Agda
The New Year’s celebration in Northern Mindanao was relatively peaceful, with police reporting minimal incidents and the destruction of seized illegal firecrackers across the region.
Police Regional Office (PRO) 10 chief Brig. Gen. Jaysen de Guzman said in a statement on Wednesday that only three firecracker-related incidents and two cases of illegal firearm discharge were recorded between December 23 and December 31, 2024.
“Our proactive security measures, combined with the unwavering support of the community, ensured that the New Year festivities in Northern Mindanao were orderly and safe,” De Guzman said.
In December, law enforcement authorities seized a total of PHP150,867 worth of illegal firecrackers. Of these, the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office destroyed PHP42,745 worth of contraband, while the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office also disposed of seized items on December 31 in Malaybalay City.
De Guzman commended the community’s cooperation and the efforts of police personnel in maintaining peace and order during the holiday celebrations. He also directed continued vigilance as work and classes resume on Thursday.