10 illegal firecracker manufacturers, sellers apprehended in Bulacan –PNP

Around 10 illegal manufacturers, dealers, and retailers of firecrackers have been apprehended so far in Bulacan, the Philippine National Police (PNP)-Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) said on Monday.

In a press briefing, PNP-FEO acting chief Police Colonel Paul Kenneth Lucas said PNP chief Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. ordered operations against illegal firecrackers.

“May mga nahuli sa Bulacan, meron yatang 10 doon na nahuli at na-file-an ng kaso (There were 10 suspects whom we apprehended and filed complaints against in Bulacan),” Lucas said.

Earlier, the PNP reminded the public to observe the regulations and laws covering the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics.

Based on the information provided by the PNP, firecrackers with the following characteristics were prohibited:

• overweight (not more than 0.2 gram or not more than one third of teaspoon);
• oversized like super lolo, giant whistle bomb, among others;
• fuse should not burn less than three seconds but not more than six seconds;
• imported finished products; and
• mixture of phosphorus or sulfur with that of chlorate.

Every community should designate a firecracker display zone and community display area where these items may be used and displayed, PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said.

Among the types of firecrackers that may be used in fireworks display areas are the following:

• baby rocket;
• bawang;
• el diablo;
• Judas’ belt;
• paper caps;
• pulling of strings;
• sky rocket (kwitis); and
• small “triangulo”.

Meanwhile, the PNP said all pyrotechnic devices or “pailaw” can be used outside the designated community areas or at home except for Type 4 pyrotechnic devices.

Among the pyrotechnic devices that may be used in residential areas are the following:

• butterfly;
• fountain;
• jumbo regular;
• luces;
• mabuhay;
• roman candle;
• sparklers;
• trompillo; and
• whistle devices.

Fajardo said there was no ban on firecrackers and pyrotechnics imposed on manufacturers and retailers. However, she said sellers should display their products in designated areas.

Based on Republic Act No. 7183, violators will face a fine up to P30,000 or imprisonment up to one year, or both at the discretion of the court. Licenses and business permits would also be canceled and stocks would be confiscated. — DVM, GMA Integrated News