PANGASINAN ushered in the New Year with a peaceful celebration, recording a significant drop in focus crimes and no incidents of stray bullets, according to the police provincial director.

In an interview on Monday, Police P/Col. Rollyfer Capoquian attributed the success to proactive measures taken by law enforcement while acknowledging the challenges that remain for future holidays.

He said that on December 31, there were no reported cases of focus crimes — such as robbery, homicide, murder, or physical injury — during the New Year’s Eve festivities. This was particularly significant considering the potential for alcohol-fueled incidents typically associated with such celebrations, he said.

“Our focus on strategic police deployment made a huge difference,” he said.

While violent crimes were kept in check, Capoquian did note a tragic drowning incident at Lingayen beach, involving vacationers from outside Pangasinan.

The much-feared issue of indiscriminate gunfire during New Year’s Eve was notably absent, with no injuries reported from stray bullets.

Another highlight of the police efforts was the destruction of illegal firecrackers on December 30 and random checks on pyrotechnics vendors, part of the authorities’ push to reduce firecracker-related injuries.

“We need to continue educating the public about the dangers before, during, and after the celebrations.”

A rise in noise pollution from motorcycle mufflers during the New Year celebrations posed a new concern with authorities receiving numerous complaints.

“The loud mufflers are becoming a real issue,” Capoquian said. “While it’s part of the tradition, we have to address the health risks and enforce laws against noise pollution. We are committed to catching offenders, especially among young riders.”

He reiterated the importance of stricter enforcement of regulations on noise pollution and firecracker safety. (Eva Visperas)

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