Private homes in Quezon City are prohibited from using firecrackers as the local government began its crackdown on their unregulated and indiscriminate use ahead of the New Year revelries.
In a statement, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte noted the 47 percent increase in emergencies and injuries related to firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in 2021.
“We want to minimize, if not totally eliminate, the number of firecracker-related injuries and casualties,” she said.
“We also want to protect homes, commercial buildings, and other structures against incidental fires and to lessen the harmful effects of hazardous chemicals and pollutants,” she added.
Under Executive Order 54 S-2022, fireworks displays in Quezon City should first secure a permission or authorization from the Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS).
Sale of permissible firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices is almost limited within shopping malls with clearance from the DPOS, and a special permit from the Business Permits and Licensing Department (BPLD).
“The sale of the same in places such as public sidewalks, tiangge, stores, and similar establishments shall be strictly prohibited,” Belmonte said.
“Selling, sharing, or giving firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices to minors is also not allowed,” she added.
Violators face fines of up to P5,000 or a one-year imprisonment or both at the discretion of the court.
The Department of Trade and Industry last week released a list of certified fireworks and firecrackers with the Philippine Standard (PS) mark for guaranteed safety and quality.
“The purchase and use of uncertified fireworks and firecrackers may result in damage to properties and cause fatalities. Hence, the DTI is here to remind all consumers to only buy and support certified fireworks produced by licensed and authorized manufacturers with Philippine Standard (PS) License,” said DTI-Consumer Protection Group Undersecretary Ruth Castelo.
