CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga—Central Luzon police director BGen Valeriano De Leon warned traders of firecrackers of jail term once caught selling any kind of firecrackers in the run up of New Years’ Eve celebration.
“Only pyrotechnics or pailaw and lucis are allowed but only within residential compound in welcoming the New Year, “ said De Leon adding criminal offense awaits violators.
Earlier, De Leon and different local government units in the region have identified 264 fireworks zone where residents can enjoy the pyrotechnics exhibition while welcoming the New Year.
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) discouraged firecrackers manufacturers to produce firecrackers as the agency will not give permit to produce any kind of firecrackers.
“Use and manufacture of firecrackers had been banned by the DILG and no permit was released for the manufacture of such products,” said De Leon.
Recently, trade and industry personnel raided several stalls in Bocaue, Bulacan, the center of pyrotechnics trade in Central Luzon, for selling unregistered pyro products and without the permit from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The raid was conducted after DTI personnel found out that only 15 fireworks manufacturers in Bulacan have no business license and permits.
Aside from no permits and license, Bulacan pyro makers have no standard quality certification, a requirement before a company can manufacture and engage in the sale of fireworks.
Underground fireworks production remained unabated due to huge demand during the holiday season.
Police records revealed backyard pyro manufacturers are rampant in the towns of Sta. Maria, Baliuag, Meycauayan and Bocaue, the center of the fireworks trade.