The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed all police chiefs nationwide to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) in setting up designated centralized markets for firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials, aiming to curb illegal sales and enhance public safety ahead of New Year festivities.
Acting PNP chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the move comes as firecracker-related injuries continue to climb. The Department of Health recorded at least 28 cases from December 21 to 25, while PNP data showed 47 injuries from December 16 to 26, with authorities expecting further increases as celebrations peak.
The PNP also reported one fatality caused by a stray bullet and the arrest of 23 individuals for illegal firecracker sales.
According to Nartatez, concentrating sales in specific locations will allow closer monitoring of vendors and products.
“The main purpose is proper regulation and public safety. By designating a specific area in every town or city where people could buy firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials, we can easily monitor and prevent the selling of illegal firecrackers,” he said in a statement on Friday, December 26.
Police chiefs were instructed to work with LGUs to identify safe selling areas and determine allowable selling periods. These zones will have visible police presence, with the Bureau of Fire Protection providing firetrucks and emergency responders on standby.
Nartatez added that centralized zones will strengthen enforcement.
“Mas madali naming matukoy kung alin ang legal at alin ang illegal na paputok. Kapag may designated firecracker zone, any sale outside that area will be considered unauthorized. Outside the zone, bawal,” he said.