MAYOR REMINDS ON FIRECRACKER BAN

December 14, 2024 Metro BLISTT

BAGUIO CITY

Mayor Benjamin Magalong reminded the public of the existing ban on the use, sale and manufacture of firecrackers in the city. This is in the wake of complaints received on incidents of firecracker explosions reported in different barangays. The mayor said there is a need to strictly implement the ordinance to prevent injuries caused by legally and illegally bought pyrotechnics in the city. The city has for years maintained its long-running stance based on the original statute Ordinance No. 144, series of 1951 amended by Ordinance No. 53, series of 2009.

Ordinance No. 53 series of 2009 states: “There shall be a total ban at all times in the city of all kinds of firecrackers
prohibited by the national law.” The ordinance prohibits the sale and explosion of firecrackers and fireworks within the city limits except on special occasions such as fiestas, celebration of important events for which a written permit is granted by the City Mayor. So far, the city has not issued any permit for any individual or group to sell firecracakers.

The prohibited firecrackers include big triangle, rebentador (5 star), watusi, pla-pla, pillbox, mother rocket, og, firecrackers without labels, and others of similar nature. It also includes all firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices
banned by the national government. Any person, firm, entity or corporation violating the provisions of this Ordinance will be liable to a case of misdemeanor and punishments as follows: first offense — confiscation of the
firecrackers and fireworks and a fine of P2,000; second offense — fine of P3,000 to P5,000 at the discretion of the court; and third offense — revocation of business permit and imprisonment for not more than 30 days at the discretion of the court.

To discourage people from using firecrackers, the city had in the past years organized a community fireworks display to prevent possible accidents aside from minimizing smoke emission caused by the firecrackers. This year, the city prepared again a New Year’s Countdown program at the Melvin Jones which is expected to include a fireworks display.

APR/Baguio-PIO