MANILA: The Director of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, emphasized on Sunday the importance of abstaining from indiscriminate firing during the New Year celebrations. He issued a stern warning to police officers, stating that anyone found involved in such activities would face immediate arrest and subsequent administrative and criminal charges. "We must ensure the safety of our community to avoid any untoward incidents, and we must serve as an example for the community by celebrating responsibly," Maranan said in a news release, urging officers to exercise extreme caution and avoid the use of firearms as part of the celebration.
According to Philippines News Agency, Maranan also advised the public to follow Republic Act 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices. To enhance safety during the festivities, the QCPD has designated specific areas where the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices will be allowed. In Fairview, these areas include SSS Village open space, Namapa basketball court, Balikatan court, Fairmont clubhouse, UNFHAI clubhouse, and Drachma open space. Cubao Police Station-7 has set areas in front of Barangay Socorro Hall, Murphy Market, Barangay San Roque Hall, and Barangay San Martin de Porres covered court. Anonas Police Station-9 has allocated spaces at K-10th St. corner Kasing-Kasing St., K-H St., Aguho St., Batino St. corner Aurora Blvd., and several open areas and parks.
Kamuning Police Station-10's designated celebration areas are Roces Avenue, Rotonda, Scout Chuatoco corner Scout Reyes Streets, Kamuning Road corner 11th Jamboree St., and NIA Road corner BIR Road. Project 6 Police Station-15 has approved areas on the rooftops of SM North and Trinoma Mall, while Pasong Putik Police Station-16 has designated the Robinsons Novaliches rooftop for festivities.
Maranan concluded by seeking public cooperation in reporting any violations and urged residents to find alternative celebration methods that do not involve illegal firecrackers. He emphasized that adherence to these guidelines would ensure a safer and more secure environment for everyone during the New Year celebrations.