CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Police seized over P125,000 worth of banned fireworks and materials during a raid on an unlicensed production site in Barangay Pulong Yantok, Angat, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) reported.

Acting on a tip from a local resident, the Angat Municipal Police Station (MPS) raided the facility at 2:40 PM on 28 October. Officers uncovered stacks of “Big Sky Rocket” and “Small Sky Rocket” fireworks, along with raw materials such as aluminum powder, fuses, and paper tubes.

Authorities traced the workshop to a man identified only as “Vic” from Sta. Maria, Bulacan, who fled before the raid. Criminal charges are being filed under Republic Act 7183, which requires permits for fireworks production. Violators face fines of up to P50,000 and possible imprisonment.

The confiscated items were transferred to the Provincial Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit in Malolos City for destruction. Bulacan Police Director Col. Angel Garcillano warned that unregulated fireworks operations put lives at risk and urged communities to report suspicious activities.

Central Luzon police director PBGen. Rogelio Peñones commended the Angat MPS for their swift action and reiterated PRO3’s commitment to curbing illegal fireworks in the region, especially with the holiday season approaching. He advised the public to purchase fireworks only from licensed dealers and to report any suspicious manufacturing or sales operations.

The operation is part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal pyrotechnics led by Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

Bulacan, a traditional hub for fireworks production, has repeatedly clashed with authorities over unlicensed operations. Recent raids highlight the persistent challenges of enforcing regulations despite strict laws.