DOLE to firecracker makers, distributors: Ensure workplace safety to prevent accidents

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reminded establishments engaged in the manufacture, distribution and sale of pyrotechnics to strictly follow occupational safety and health (OSH) standards to prevent workplace mishaps.

In Labor Advisory 18, series of 2025 dated November 28, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma directed the DOLE’s regional offices to monitor the compliance of establishments manufacturing or selling pyrotechnics with OSH rules.

This will be in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units, he added.

“All regional directors are hereby directed to monitor establishments’ compliance with the aforementioned and other related issuances to prevent workplace accidents under Department Order No. 238, Series 2023,” Laguesma said, referring to the DOLE’s rules on visitorial powers and enforcement of OSH and labor standards.

The DOLE regional directors were ordered to submit the list of monitored pyrotechnics establishments to the Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC) on or before January 15, 2026.

It may be recalled that in October, two died and five others were injured when an illegal fireworks factory exploded in Norzagaray, Bulacan.

Laguesma issued the labor advisory ahead of the Yuletide holidays, especially that Filipinos usually usher in the New Year with fireworks.

In December 2024, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said there were 14 licensed manufacturers that were authorized to produce and supply fireworks in the country. — JMA, GMA Integrated News