By Jennifer P. Rendon and Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has intensified its campaign against the use of boga, a PVC cannon commonly used as a noisemaker during New Year celebrations, warning the public of its dangers and legal consequences.
ICPO chief Colonel Kim Legada emphasized that boga remains illegal under Republic Act No. 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
While popular as a firecracker alternative, boga poses significant safety risks, having caused numerous injuries and even fatalities in the past.
“We urge everyone to celebrate the New Year safely and responsibly by refraining from using illegal items like boga,” Legada said, warning that violators will face legal action.
Confiscation of Boga Units
On December 26, the ICPO conducted operations across the city, confiscating 34 boga units:
- Iloilo City Police Stations 1 and 6: One unit each
- Iloilo City Police Station 3: Three units
- Iloilo City Police Station 7: Five units
- Iloilo City Police Station 8: Thirteen units
Additional patrols, barangay coordination, and checkpoints have been deployed in strategic areas to monitor and apprehend violators.
The ICPO encouraged public cooperation and urged citizens to report incidents involving prohibited items through hotlines 0908-377-0194 or 335-0299.
20 Fireworks-Related Injuries in Western Visayas
The Department of Health – Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) reported 20 fireworks-related injuries (FWRI) from December 21 to 26.
This year’s tally marks a sharp rise from the three cases recorded during the same period last year.
Of the injuries reported, seven were from blast and burn injuries without amputation, eight were eye injuries, and five involved combined blast/burn and eye injuries.
Boga caused 13 of the incidents, followed by bamboo cannons (2 cases), kwitis (3 cases), five-star (1 case), and triangle (1 case).
All patients received treatment and have been discharged. No cases of fireworks ingestion or stray bullet injuries were recorded.
DOH’s Safety Campaigns
To address the risks, the DOH WV CHD has been on White Code Alert since December 21, ensuring health facilities are prepared for emergencies with adequate personnel, supplies, and equipment.
In a statement, the department urged the public to prioritize safety.
“We can still enjoy celebrating Christmas and welcoming the New Year in a healthy, safe, and joyful way. Let us always prioritize the health and safety of ourselves, our families, and others,” it said.
The DOH continues to promote its Iwas Paputok campaign, advocating for a gun- and firecracker-free New Year to prevent injuries and ensure a safe celebration.
It also promotes Healthy Handaan for nutritious holiday feasts and its BiyaHealthy campaign, encouraging safe travel practices, including wearing face masks and maintaining hygiene in crowded areas.
With the combined efforts of local authorities and health agencies, Iloilo City aims to ensure a safer and injury-free holiday season.
