Firecrackers off limits in sidewalks

CEBU, Philippines - The city government will once again strictly enforce the ordinance on selling, testing and display of firecrackers by deploying a task force to ensure that no firecrackers and pyrotechnics are being sold at the city’s sidewalks.

Market Administrator Racquel Arce said the task force will start inspection on December 16.

“Inihap na lang ang mga adlaw anang naninda ug mga pabuto diha sa tabi-tabi kay karong pipila ka adlaw, mo-operate na mi,” Arce warned.

Arce said vendors can only sell their goods at the “firecracker and pyrotechnic zone” area at the South Road Properties from December 21 to 31.

Still, vendors of firecrackers and pyrotechnics would need to meet certain requirements to be able to sell their goods at the SRP, including a permit fee of P1,500, which covers tent rental. Vendors would also need to pay P50 for the daily excise tax.

Aside from these, they also need to show proof that their goods come from legitimate manufacturers, Arce said.

So far, only seven vendors have met the requirements and were subsequently given permits to sell firecrackers and pyrotechnics at the SRP.

The market administrator said the restriction will be observed to minimize or totally eradicate injuries or possible fires caused by firecrackers.

Under City Ordinance No. 1962, violators will be fined P5,000 and may even face imprisonment up to three months or pay the administrative fee of P500, at the discretion of the court.

Meanwhile, City Ordinance 1963 penalizes the indiscriminate setting off or exploding and the imprudent display of firecrackers anywhere in the city. Violators can be fined P1,000 and may face imprisonment of at least one month and not more than three months.

An offender can be fined and imprisoned at the discretion of the court or pay the administrative compromise fee of P500.“

On the other hand, City Ordinance 1931 declares unlawful the act of caroling during Christmas season between 10:00 pm to 7:00 am of the following day. The said ordinance only allows caroling from December 16 until the first Sunday of the preceding year, but carolers will have to secure a permit from City Hall.

Violators may be imprisoned not exceeding five days or may be fined with not exceeding P500 or may be fined and imprisoned at the discretion of the court. - Elly T. Bolonos/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)