Authorities destroyed more than 1,000 illegal firecrackers, including improvised cannon guns or boga, confiscated during the Christmas season.

The illegal firecrackers were soaked in water during a ceremonial destruction held at the police headquarters.

Up to 1,042 assorted firecrackers were destroyed. Kwitis accounted for majority of the items confiscated at 435 pieces.

Police said these illegal firecrackers were seized during operations conducted from December 16 to 26, 2025. Most of the items were reportedly bought online with labels indicating seemingly that these were manufactured in other countries.

“Mostly ana gikan online access kay wala mana gud sila sa lista sa ato’ng parameters. Dili pud safe nga mga brand sa products. Mga label ana mura’g sa laing nasud,” General Santos City Police Office Director, Col. Nicomedes Olaivar Jr., said.

At least 45 improvised cannon guns, including a type resembling a gun, were also destroyed.

“Ilang gi-electronics na para paspas unya kusog napud mubuto so delikado gihapon sa ato’ng motorist kay inig agi ra ba nato, i-mount pud ang boga ana sa ato’ng mga motorist… maka-distract, maka-crash… destructive gyud,” Olaivar added.

Authorities said additional batches of confiscated illegal firecrackers and improvised cannon guns will be destroyed if more are seized during the New Year celebrations.

INJURIES

Meanwhile, the Department of Health-SOCCCSKSARGEN (DOH-12) reported 25 fireworks-related injuries recorded in the region from December 21 until 8 a.m. on December 29, 2025.

South Cotabato recorded the highest number of cases with 10 with the ‘five star’ firecracker injuring seven people.

The number is 10 cases lower compared to the 35 cases logged in the same period in 2024.

DOH-12 continues to urge the public to refrain from using firecrackers and instead opt for safe alternatives to welcome the new year.