Nartatez, Fernando inspect firecracker stalls in Bulacan
BOCAUE, BULACAN —Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, together with Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando and Central Luzon Police Regional Director Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., inspected firecracker and pyrotechnic display areas at the Santiago compound in Barangay Turo, Bocaue, on Monday, Dec. 22.
The inspection was joined by the Bulacan Police led by Col. Angel L. Garcillano, representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry–Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau, and the Business Permit and Licensing Office.
Authorities found that pyrotechnic stalls were compliant with safety regulations and protocols.
Lt. Gen. Nartatez emphasized that ensuring a safe and accident-free Christmas and New Year celebration requires avoiding illegal, oversized, and overweight firecrackers, which remain strictly prohibited under the law.
Among the banned firecrackers are Watusi, Piccolo, Poppop, Five-Star, Pla-Pla, Lolo Thunder, Giant Bawang, Giant Whistle Bomb, Atomic Bomb, Super Lolo, Atomic Triangle, Goodbye Philippines, Goodbye Chismosa, Yolanda, Coke-in-Can, Hello Columbia, Ulysses, Carina, Kwiton, King Kong, and Kabasi.
“Necessary penalties will be imposed on manufacturers and sellers caught distributing prohibited items,” Nartatez warned.
The authorities also reminded pyrotechnic manufacturers to avoid using Chinese characters on packaging, as imported finished pyrotechnic products are banned in the country.
Nartatez further urged the public to purchase only from legitimate sellers and manufacturers to ensure safe holiday celebrations.