9 arrested, over 27,000 illegal firecrackers seized ahead of New Year —PNP

Nine people were arrested for possession, use, or sale of illegal firecrackers while 27,829 illegal firecrackers were confiscated ahead of the New Year revelries, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday.

Based on the information provided to GMA News Online by PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo, P361,968 worth of illegal firecrackers were seized since December 16.

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

Firecrackers with the following characteristics are 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.

Fajardo reiterated that every community should designate a firecracker display zone and community display area.

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 is 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. Their license and business permit will also be canceled and their stocks will be confiscated.—AOL, GMA Integrated News