Up to 136 improvised firecrackers or “boga” and 47 open pipe muffler or “bora-bora” were destroyed in Cotabato City.

The destruction was led by the police and the local government.

These “bora-bora” and “boga” were seized from December 2024 to January 3, 2025.

According to the local government, the campaign against open pipe mufflers will be intensified.

The use of open pipe mufflers is prohibited because of the disturbance it causes.

“This is a warning to all of them that we are serious in running after those who are violating an existing ordinance against open pipe., meron po tayong ordinansa na nagbabawal sa paggamit ng open pipes and kasunod nito yung mga nadakip nito ay nagbayad na rin ng mga multa,” Cotabato City Mayor Bruce Matabalao said.

Aside from paying a penalty, third offenders may also be imprisoned.

“Pag hindi talaga kaya, meron naman nakasaad doon na tatlong beses na violations will already qualify for imprisonment,” Matabalao added.

Police are also set to inspect stores that sell open pipe mufflers.

“Continuous ang operation natin araw at gabi para maiwasan ang paggamit nito and aside from that I’m planning to hava some inspection doon sa mga nagbebenta ng mga open pipe at maabisuhan natin sila na itoy bawal,” Cotabato City Police Director, Col. Jibin Bongcayao, said.