Baguio CPO and LGU lead ceremonial destruction of over 14,000 seized pyrotechnics

In a ceremonial activity demonstrating the government’s firm stance against the sale and use of dangerous explosives, a total of 14,362 confiscated and surrendered illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices were destroyed at the Melvin Jones Grounds, Baguio City, on January 7, 2026.
The ceremonial destruction was led by Hon. Benjamin B. Magalong, City Mayor of Baguio, alongside PCOL JULIO S LIZARDO, Deputy Regional Director for Administration of the Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) and PCOL RUEL D TAGEL, City Director of the Baguio City Police Office (CPO). The illegal items were rendered inert by soaking them in water and subsequently crushing them using a heavy truck.
Over the past weeks, police personnel conducted intensified operations to seize these hazardous items to prevent accidents, injuries, and potential loss of life. Among the confiscated materials were boga (improvised cannons) and various unlicensed firecrackers. Due to the inherent risks these items pose to the community, authorities emphasized that their immediate and safe destruction was necessary to uphold public safety.
In his message, PCOL LIZARDO stressed the importance of public cooperation in maintaining safety, especially during festive celebrations. He expressed his gratitude to the law enforcement units and local government officials for their dedicated efforts in enforcing the law and educating the public on the dangers of illegal fireworks.
Meanwhile, Mayor Magalong commended the police force and other stakeholders for their active support of the campaign. He also encouraged residents to adopt safer and more responsible ways of celebrating special occasions.
Following the ceremony, PCOL LIZARDO spoke with various media outlets, reiterating the commitment of PRO CAR, the BCPO, and partner agencies to strictly enforce firecracker laws and protect the public from firecracker-related incidents.
The activity highlights PRO CAR’s unwavering commitment to public safety and its rigorous enforcement of Republic Act No. 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices. Furthermore, it reinforces City Ordinance No. 53, Series of 2009, which mandates a strict ban on prohibited firecrackers at all times within Baguio City. **RPIO PRO CAR