New Year’s festivities in Metro Manila generally peaceful, orderly — NCRPO

This file photo shows members of the Philippine National Police. Photo from PNP

MANILA, Philippines — No major untoward incidents were recorded as Metro Manila welcomed the new year, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said on Sunday.

In a statement, NCRPO Regional Director Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo said the ‘generally peaceful’ celebration was made possible through the efforts of police officers who monitored possible incidents like the use of illegal firecrackers and the discharge of firearms.

According to Estomo, there were no major reports of firecracker-related incidents or any injury from stray bullets, indiscriminate firing, or firecracker-related conflagration.

 “The metro wide celebration of December 31 New Year’s Eve revelry was resoundingly safe and peaceful,” Estomo said.

 “These positive developments could be attributed to our early preparations and consistent implementation of various measures,” he added.

Estomo said that the ban on the sale and use of illegal firecrackers also helped in reducing incidents and avoiding injuries.

 Last December 28, Estomo announced that over 1,300 officers were deployed to focus primarily on ensuring that no illegal firecrackers would be used, and that no firearm discharge would occur. 

NCRPO also said they are aiming for a zero-casualty New Year celebrations.

At least seven violators of the firecracker ban, and two violators if illegal discharge of firearms were apprehended.  Over P1.208 million-worth of firecrackers were also confiscated.

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