Minors in Iloilo City simulate gunfight using firecrackers

Two groups of juveniles in Iloilo City were seen in a video simulating a gunfight using firecrackers. One group was situated by the bank of a creek, while the rest was on the other side. The minors were seen ducking from time to time to avoid embers from the lighted firecrackers.The incident was caught on cam at the esplanade of Barangay Bakhaw, Mandurriao and Barangay Desamparados in Jaro on December 26, 2025.According to alias “Inday,” who was passing through the area, the simulated gunfight startled her, citing that the use of firecrackers is extremely dangerous.“Hindi naman ako tinamaan. Ang mismo nakita ko, may bata na nagpapaputok rin. Nagulat nga ako. Pinagsabihan ko, sabi ko alam niyo naman na may dumadaan, ninenerbyos ako,” alias “Inday,” the witness, said.According to Barangay Desamparados Chairman Nestor Lubaton, seven persons of minor ages were involved in the incident. All are boys, ages nine to 13 years old. They were summoned to the barangay along with their parents or guardians.“Nang pinuntahan ko noong pinagsabihan ko sila, parang laro lang naman sana. Hindi naman raw nila alam na ang kanilang ginagawa ay makakapinsala sa iba,” Lobaton said.Barangay officials went to check the minors but they denied any involvement in the incident.The other juveniles were not identified, though. Report on persons hurt is yet verified.“Pinagsabihan na natin sila na kailangan, umamin sila para mapag-usapan natin at hindi na lumala pa,”  Barangay Bakhaw Chairman Joel Alvarado said.According to the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), thunder sticks and magical shots were used by the minors.While the said firecrackers are not listed among banned items, authorities pointed out that reckless handling can still result in injuries and fire incidents.ICPO urged parents and guardians to monitor tightly their children as they can be held liable instead in case of untoward incidents.  "Dapat habang maaga pa, pagsabihan na at itigil na habang nagtitipon-tipon pa lang sila. Posibleng mawalan ng parte ng katawan, kamay at baka mabulag sila," said Major Shella Mae Sangrines, spokesperson of the ICPO.