Zero fatalities, no stray bullet victims in Central Luzon during New Year 2026

The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) on Thursday reported zero fatalities and no stray bullet victims during the New Year 2026 celebrations in Central Luzon, following intensified security operations and strict enforcement of public safety measures.

Central Luzon police chief Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. said PRO3 recorded a total of 113 holiday-related incidents, including 29 cases involving firecrackers. Authorities confirmed that 31 individuals sustained injuries due to firecracker-related incidents, but no deaths and no stray bullet victims were reported.

Peñones said sustained enforcement operations led to the confiscation and voluntary surrender of 50,994 prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, including 448 improvised “boga” cannons, significantly reducing risks during the festivities.

Under zero-tolerance policy on indiscriminate firing, police arrested three suspects and confiscated five firearms in connection with incidents involving the illegal discharge of firearms.

Peñones clarified that none of the incidents involved Philippine National Police (PNP) or other uniformed personnel, underscoring the organization’s strict discipline and adherence to firearms regulations.

He attributed the positive outcome to proactive policing, heightened police visibility, and strong cooperation among local government units, partner agencies, and the public.

“The absence of fatalities and stray bullet victims reflects our firm enforcement of the law and the discipline of our police personnel. While firecracker-related injuries were recorded, preventing loss of life remains our priority, and we will continue to strengthen these efforts,” Peñones said.

PRO3 urged the public to continue celebrating responsibly and observing safety measures, noting that sustained police presence and active community partnership remain vital in maintaining peace and order across Central Luzon.

The successful New Year security operations, Peñones added, highlight PRO3’s commitment to delivering “Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”

Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) also reported a generally peaceful New Year celebration in Metro Manila.

NCRPO spokesperson Maj. Hazel Asilo said early deployment of police personnel and widespread visibility in major roads and New Year’s Eve countdown venues contributed to the orderly situation.

“Pangkalahatan generally peaceful naman at maayos ang naging sitwasyon sa pagsalubong natin ng Bagong Taon dito sa Metro Manila. Effective yung ating maagang deployment at yung ating malawakang police visibility,” Asilo said in a television interview.

She said NCRPO recorded 147 incidents involving minor injuries, mostly due to firecrackers. Asilo added that police received two reports of indiscriminate firing involving civilians, who were identified and arrested.

Charges are being prepared for indiscriminate discharge of firearms and violations of Republic Act 10591, as the firearms involved were illegal and undocumented.

On cases involving PNP personnel, Asilo said only one incident of indiscriminate firing was reported, which occurred during Christmas Day on 25 December.

The PNP reiterated its commitment to protecting lives, maintaining peace and order, and ensuring safe and orderly celebrations nationwide.