Authorized firecracker vendors have started setting up stalls in front of the plaza in Calasiao, Pangasinan as police and local officials enforce strict rules to ensure public safety ahead of the New Year.

Only two of the nine vendors issued permits have so far displayed their products. The vendors have posted required signages such as “No Smoking,” “No Testing,” and their permit to sell issued by Camp Crame. Fire extinguishers, water, and sand are also in place at each stall as part of safety measures.

Authorities said vendors underwent a mandatory seminar before they were allowed to sell firecrackers. They were reminded to strictly follow safety rules and existing regulations.

Jonathan Jovellanos, a firecracker vendor, said discipline is important when selling pyrotechnics.

“Syempre kailangan maging mapagmatiyag tayo. Sa mga may yosi na medyo malapit sa puwesto, sasawayin po natin sila. Tapos po bawal po magbenta sa mga minor,” he said.

Some buyers have already started visiting the area. Franco Labaupa, who came from Nueva Ecija, said he takes the chance to buy whenever he passes by Calasiao.

“Taon-taon nabili ako dito pagka dumadaan kami, galing pa kami ng Nueva Ecija,” he said.

The Philippine National Police reminded the public that several firecrackers remain prohibited, including watusi, piccolo, giant whistle bomb, atomic triangle, and other high-powered fireworks. Police said they are closely monitoring areas to prevent the sale of illegal firecrackers.

Calasiao Police Station operations officer PCapt. Godofrey Mercado said selling firecrackers outside the designated area is not allowed.

“Isa lang po ‘yong firecracker selling zone, doon lang po sa harap ng plaza. Doon lang po ang authorized na pagbentahan nila. Otherwise, lahat ng iyon ay illegal na iyon. Puwede nating kumpiskahin ang mga pinagtitinda nila,” he said.

Police urged the public to buy only from authorized vendors and to follow safety guidelines to prevent accidents during the holiday celebrations.