PRO3 IDENTIFIES AUTHORIZED FIRECRACKER, FIREWORKS DISPLAY ZONES IN CENTRAL LUZON

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has released the official list of authorized community firecracker selling zones and fireworks display areas across Central Luzon as part of intensified efforts to prevent firecracker-related injuries during the holiday season.

According to Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) director Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr., the move aims to ensure public safety and promote an injury-free New Year celebration through regulated and closely monitored venues for firecracker sales and fireworks displays.

The list of authorized zones remains subject to change pending further validation, compliance monitoring, and coordination with concerned local government units (LGUs) and regulatory agencies.

Peñones reiterated his strong warning against the use, sale, and distribution of illegal firecrackers, stressing that strict enforcement of existing laws and regulations will be implemented throughout the holiday period.

A total of 196 authorized community firecracker selling zones have been identified across the region, distributed as follows: Aurora – 13; Bataan – 5; Bulacan – 73; Nueva Ecija – 28; Pampanga – 24; Tarlac – 14; and Zambales – 39.

Meanwhile, 153 authorized fireworks display zones have been designated, broken down as: Aurora – 2; Bataan – 3; Bulacan – 69; Nueva Ecija – 27; Pampanga – 16; Tarlac – 8; Zambales – 26; and Angeles City – 2.

“These designated zones are meant to provide safe and regulated venues for holiday celebrations while significantly reducing the risk of firecracker-related injuries,” Peñones said.

“We once again appeal to the public to refrain from using illegal firecrackers and instead welcome the New Year through safer and more responsible forms of merriment,” he added.

The official said the initiative is part of PRO3’s implementation of the Philippine National Police’s Focused Agenda under acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., particularly in strengthening enhanced police operations and active community support through sustained law enforcement and public information campaigns.

It is likewise aligned with PRO3’s 3Ps strategic thrust: Protect the People by preventing injuries and loss of life, Pursue Peace and Order through strict enforcement against illegal firecrackers, and Promote Professionalism by ensuring disciplined, accountable, and service-oriented policing.

Peñones said the PRO3 continues to work closely with LGUs and other stakeholders to ensure full compliance with safety regulations, reaffirming its commitment to a safe, peaceful, and orderly holiday celebration across Central Luzon.