Three leading pyrotechnics distributors; Dragon Fireworks, Pyroworks and Grand Firefly Fireworks, joined forces to organize a press conference on December 20 in a bid to inform the public about the difference between the legal and safer consumer pyrotechnics versus the illegal and unsafe firecrackers.
They also want to let the public know that there is no ban on consumer pyrotechnics based on the Executive Order No. 28 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte last June 20, 2017.
Present during the press conference were Police Regional Office (PRO-7) Director Chief Supt. Jose Mario Espino, Deputy Regional Director for Operations Senior Supt. Dennis Agustin, Regional Civil Security Unit–Central Visayas (RCSU-7) chief Supt. Allan Servida, and Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak.
“PRO-7 will work hand in hand with the RCSU-7 to make sure that the products that are being sold to the public are of standard,” said Espino who, together with their team, came from a surprise inspection at the South Road Properties that resulted in the closure of a number of vendors selling prohibited fireworks.
Consumer pyrotechnics are devices readily available for purchase by the general public.
These are fireworks with colored lights, flames and sparks as the primary effect, and sounds are merely incidental in nature.
Though it can still be hazardous if not stored and handled properly, these are considered low hazard and may be used in residences and hazard-free areas outside designated community fireworks zones.
Meanwhile, firecrackers are low explosive devices wrapped in paper or cardboard casing containing an explosive compound and is usually lit with a fuse. It is primarily designed to produce a sound, usually in the form of a loud bang. When lit, these can produce shockwaves that can be harmful to those nearby especially the one who lit it. Firecrackers are also confined to community fireworks zones only and cannot be used in residences.
According to the PNP (Philippine National Police) representatives, for safety reasons, the pyrotechnics must have Product Safety (P.S.) mark, manufacturer’s name, and instructions and warning signs printed on the packaging.
These labels can be found in pyrotechnics sold by Dragon Fireworks, Pyroworks, and Grand Firefly Fireworks with outlets located in malls all around the city.