CEBU, Philippines — To ensure public safety during the holidays, the Philippine National Police-Civil Security Group (PNP-CSG) is prohibiting the sale and purchase of certain firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.
Under Executive Order (EO) 28 and Republic Act (RA) 7183, a comprehensive list of hazardous fireworks has been identified and the particular items were identified as dangerous for use.
P/Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey B. Bilaro of Regional Civil Security Unit of Central Visayas (RCSU)-7 listed firecrackers that are notorious for their high risk of causing injuries, fires, and explosions.
"Based on EO 28 mayroon tayong 28 prohibited firecrackers. So ibig sabahin, sa public should not buy it," said Bilaro.
He said his office has issued permits to seven dealers, two manufacturers, and 602 retailers across the region, and the said businesses have complied with the requirements and are now authorized to operate.
Only licensed entities can sell and distribute fireworks to prevent illegal and unsafe products from the consumers.
He said the PNP-CSG emphasized that these permits are only granted to those who strictly follow the regulations and safety standards.
Among the list of banned items are Watusi, Picollo, Poppop, Five Star, Pla-Pla, Lolo Thunder, Giant Bawang, Giant Whistle Bomb, Atomic Bomb, and Atomic Triangle.
The other are large-size Judas Belt, Goodbye Delima, Hello Columbia, Goodbye Napoles, Super Yolanda, Mother Rockets, Kwiton, Super Lolo, Goodbye Bading, Goodbye Philippines, Bin Laden, Coke-in-Can, Pillbox, Kabasi, Special, Kingkong, Tuna and Goodbye Chismosa.
Moreover, Bilaro said, those weighing more than 0.2 grams of explosive material with dangerously short or long fuse burn times are also included, as well as fireworks containing dangerous mixtures of phosphorous, sulfur, and chlorates, due to severe risk they pose to public safety.
In terms of imported firecrackers, Bilaro shared that imported finished products which contain a mix of fuel and oxidizing agents are also prohibited.
The penalty for selling illegal fireworks is imposed on retailers who are licensed, as they are responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations.
f they violate even just one of the rules, their permits may be revoked or cancelled, provided their wrongdoing is proven.
The penalty for the offense ranges from P20,000 to P30,000, along with a possible imprisonment of six months to one year.
"As of this moment wala pay nag -iolate. Pero last year, alam ko sa Region 7 it happened," Bilaro said.
He reminded everyone to celebrate Christmas and New Year responsibly and avoid illegal or dangerous firecrackers.
He emphasized that safety should come first, that is why compliance with safety protocols is essential to prevent injuries and accidents during the festive period.
As the holiday season approaches, authorities are reminding the public to purchase fireworks only from licensed retailers and dealers who adhere to the safety regulations.
Bilaro said Certified Philippine Standard firecrackers and fireworks are the safest option for celebrants looking to enjoy the festivities. — (FREEMAN)