BAGUIO CITY – No firecracker injuries were reported on Christmas Eve and Christmas here.
But Mayor Benjamin Magalong said 2,206 different fireworks and illegal noisemakers were seized during the period.
He said this was the result of the vigilance of barangay officials, the Baguio City Police Office, and the Public Order and Safety Division.
"We will hold all barangay chiefs and PNP station commanders accountable in case any damage occurs in their areas," Magalong said.
City Ordinance No. 144, Series of 1951, as amended by City Ordinance No. 53, Series of 2009, prohibits the sale and use of fireworks and firecrackers within the city, unless a permit is granted by the mayor for special occasions.
Under the ordinance, the sale and use of fireworks such as Big Triangle, Five Star, Watusi, Pla-Pla, Pillbox, Mother Rocket, Boga, unlabeled fireworks, and other similar devices are strictly prohibited during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
A total ban on fireworks, pursuant to Republic Act No. 7183, which regulates the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of pyrotechnic devices, is also enforced at all times in the city.
Penalties include confiscation of the fireworks and a fine of P2,000 for the first violation; a fine of P3,000 to P5,000 for the second violation, and revocation of business permits and imprisonment of up to 30 days for the third violation.