The Bulacan Pyrotechnics Regulatory Board (BPRB) led by Governor Daniel Fernando and Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Francisco Marbil conducted a surprise inspection of firecracker stores in Bocaue, Bulacan, on Wednesday, Dec. 18.
Governor Daniel R. Fernando and PNP Chief Dir. Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, with Vice Gov. Alex C. Castro and Joven Ong, president of the Bulacan Regulatory Board, inspected the fireworks stores in Brgy. Turo, Bocaue, Bulacan on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024. (Freddie C. Velez)
The initiative aims to prevent the manufacture, distribution, and sale of illegal and dangerous firecracker products in preparation for the New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Fernando emphasized the significance of adhering to safety standards and provisions under Republic Act 7183, or the “Firecracker Law of 1992.”
“This initiative ensures that safety and other vital provisions of the Firecracker Law are strictly observed,” Fernando said.
The governor, along with Vice Governor Alexis Castro, reminded dealers to comply with safety regulations, including ensuring that fire extinguishers and firefighting equipment are in proper working condition.
Marbil urged the public to avoid using prohibited firecrackers to prevent accidents during the festivities.
Meanwhile, Bulacan Police Chief Col. Satur Ediong has been directed to intensify crackdowns on illegal firecrackers, such as oversized noisemakers and “killer” firecrackers.
He added that enforcement teams have been deployed along firecracker stalls to ensure compliance with Executive Order 28 and the Firecracker Law.
Prohibited firecrackers include “Goodbye Philippines,” “Yolanda,” “Pla-Pla,” “Ampatuan,” “Super Lolo,” Piccolo, Watusi, and other items deemed hazardous, particularly for children.
“We are doing this to uplift awareness and guide the public in the proper handling of fireworks, especially the children,” Fernando added.
He assured that firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices being sold in Bulacan undergo strict quality control.
He encouraged manufacturers to include safety instructions on product labels to ensure user safety.
Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Officer Ret. Col. Manuel Lukban Jr. distributed informational leaflets and flyers to customers at firecracker stalls on the safe use of fireworks.
To ensure public safety, firetrucks and ambulances have been stationed in Bocaue — dubbed as the country’s fireworks capital—as well as in neighboring towns like Sta. Maria and Baliuag.
Fernando said this proactive measure underscores the BPRB's and PNP's commitment to a safe New Year celebration for all Filipinos.