The Philippine National Police has renewed its warning to the public over indiscriminate firing, stressing the strict implementation of its One-Strike Policy as the country approaches the New Year celebrations.
The PNP said the policy applies to all police units nationwide and forms part of its preemptive measures to ensure public safety during the Christmas and New Year period.
Police operations have been intensified against the manufacture, sale and use of illegal or improvised firecrackers in line with Republic Act 7183, or the Firecracker Law. Prohibited firecrackers include piccolo, watusi, lolo thunder, giant bawang and other similar dangerous items, regardless of where they are used.
Authorities also emphasized that the One-Strike Policy is being strictly enforced against all gun owners, particularly uniformed personnel and law enforcers who may be involved in incidents of illegal discharge of firearms. The PNP said there will be no tolerance for indiscriminate firing.
Acting PNP Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police commanders are expected to act immediately on any reported incident related to indiscriminate firing or other public safety violations. He added that commanders will be held accountable if cases remain unresolved beyond 36 hours.
Nartatez stressed that swift investigation is required in all incidents involving illegal gunfire to prevent injuries and property damage during the holiday season.
He also called on the public to cooperate with authorities, saying safety is a shared responsibility. With police officers deployed nationwide and heightened security measures in place, the PNP expressed confidence that Filipinos can welcome the New Year peacefully.
Two days before the arrival of 2026, the PNP said it continues to step up security operations nationwide to ensure a safe and orderly celebration.
