By Eva Visperas
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan— In a symbolic show of force against confiscated illegal firecrackers, pyrotechnic devices, boga and mufflers, Police Colonel Rollyfer Capoquian, police director, led a ceremonial destruction today (December 30) of confiscated items as part of ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and peaceful New Year celebration in Pangasinan.
The event held at the grounds of Camp Antonio Sison in this capital town saw the disposal of 1,381 illegal firecrackers and 238 mufflers.
In his speech during the ceremony, PCol Capoquian recalled his years as a member of the National Capital Region Police Office where such ceremonies were held annually. “We had no other mission there but to ensure safety and order in the celebration of the New Year,” he said, emphasizing the high risks associated with the use of illegal fireworks and pyrotechnics, including accidents and injuries.
The confiscated items included a variety of dangerous firecrackers which are prohibited under Executive Order 28 and Republic Act 7183. Capoquian also underscored the dangers posed by illegal mufflers, commonly used in modified motorcycles, which contribute to noise pollution and accidents during New Year celebrations.
“Aside from creating harm and injury, the use of pyrotechnics and illegal mufflers is not good for human health,” Capoquian stated, reiterating that the provincial police would continue their crackdown to prevent accidents and casualties.
The ceremonial destruction was attended by key local figures and officials from various law enforcement agencies. Capoquian acknowledged the collaborative effort in the operation, highlighting the critical role of his officers in ensuring the safety of the people of Pangasinan.
“We are not only confiscating these illegal items; we are protecting potential victims,” Capoquian added, stressing the preventive nature of the operation. He called for a shift in how New Year’s Eve celebrations are marked, urging residents to use safer alternatives such as torotots (whistles) instead of firecrackers to make noise.
The police operation, which began earlier in December, forms part of the province’s broader efforts to promote peace and order, particularly during the holiday season. The provincial police director also mentioned that this initiative was in line with preparations for the upcoming elections, as officers conduct checkpoints throughout the province as part of a year-round crime prevention strategy.
During an interview after the ceremony, Capoquian provided further insight into the police’s efforts to maintain public safety during the New Year. He shared that, since December 25, Pangasinan has generally been peaceful, with no major incidents reported.
As part of a broader crime prevention strategy, Capoquian also addressed the issue of indiscriminate firing during the New Year. “We launched an information drive using social media to remind the public that illegal firearms are prohibited and that indiscriminate firing will not be tolerated,” he said.
He said police officers have been actively deployed in strategic locations, and checkpoints have been set up to deter illegal activities.
In response to questions about firearms safety, the Provincial Director noted that the police continue to intensify efforts against the illegal possession and use of firearms. “Even beyond the New Year celebrations, we are focused on reducing the number of loose firearms and ensuring that we maintain a strict campaign against illegal weapons,” he added.
 In a related development, after the ceremonial destruction, the provincial police conducted an inspection of stalls selling firecrackers and pyrotechnics in Dagupan City.
The inspection aimed to ensure that vendors are complying with regulations and selling only licensed, legal products. According to Capoquian, the majority of the firecracker vendors in the city are legitimate and hold the necessary licenses to sell their products.
“We have inspected the stalls, and we are pleased to report that the majority of vendors are adhering to the regulations. They have the proper permits, and we commend them for following the law,” Capoquian noted during an interview.
However, Capoquian also took the opportunity to remind vendors that selling illegal firecrackers could lead to severe consequences, including the revocation of their business permits. “My advice to these vendors is simple: just keep it legitimate. There’s no reason to risk investing in an illegal business. If you don’t adhere to the law, your permits can be canceled,” he added.
Capoquian also emphasized that similar inspections will be carried out in other cities and towns across the province, with a focus on the larger urban centers.
“Today, we are conducting inspections in Dagupan and will continue until December 31. Our teams are out in the field, and we are prioritizing the bigger cities. We will make sure that no illegal firecrackers are being sold,” said Capoquian.