PNP eyes centralized firecracker markets ahead of New Year

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is pushing for centralized and designated markets for the sale of firecrackers and pyrotechnics to boost public safety ahead of New Year celebrations.

In a statement, PNP chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said all police chiefs have been directed to work with local government units (LGUs) to identify their possible locations.

“By designating a specific area in every town or city where people could buy firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials, we can easily monitor and prevent the selling of illegal firecrackers,” he said.

“Centralized selling areas allow us to strictly inspect vendors and products. Mas madali naming matukoy kung alin ang legal at alin ang illegal na paputok. Kapag may designated firecracker zone, any sale outside that area will be considered unauthorized. Outside the zone, bawal,” he added.

(We can more easily determine which fireworks are legal and which are illegal. When there is a designated firecracker zone, any sale outside that area will be considered unauthorized. Outside the zone, it is prohibited.)

Nartatez made the move amid data from the Department of Health showing at least 28 firecracker-related injuries recorded from December 21 to 25.

The designated areas will have visible police presence, the PNP said.

In coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), firetrucks and emergency responders will be on standby in these areas to immediately respond to any incident.

The police will also coordinate with local governments for the appropriate period for the sale of firecrackers, according to the PNP. —VAL, GMA Integrated News