CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) recorded zero fatalities and no stray bullet victims during the welcome of New Year 2026, following intensified security operations and strict enforcement of public safety measures across Central Luzon.
As of press time, PRO3 documented 113 holiday-related incidents, with 29 cases involving firecrackers. While 31 individuals sustained injuries due to firecracker-related incidents, authorities confirmed that no deaths and no stray bullet victims were recorded during the celebrations.
In line with the Region’s zero-tolerance policy on indiscriminate firing, police arrested three (3) suspects and confiscated five (5) firearms in connection with indiscriminate discharge of firearms incidents. PRO3 clarified that none of the incidents involved PNP or other uniformed personnel, underscoring the organization’s strict enforcement of discipline and adherence to firearms regulations.
Sustained enforcement operations also resulted in the confiscation and voluntary surrender of 50,994 pieces of prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, including 448 improvised “boga” cannons, significantly reducing potential risks during the holiday festivities.
P/Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., Regional Director of PRO3, 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,” RD Peñones said.
The Regional Director emphasized that the Region’s holiday security operations were conducted in line with the PNP Focused Agenda of Acting Chief, PNP P/Lt. Gen.Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, and guided by PRO3’s 3Ps—Protect the People, Pursue Peace and Order, and Promote Professionalism.
PRO3 continues to urge the public to celebrate responsibly and observe 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 underscore PRO3’s commitment to delivering “Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman,” ensuring public safety before, during, and beyond the holiday season. ( Unlinews Online)
