The Department of Trade and Industry Regional Office III (DTI-3) reminded buyers of firecrackers and pyrotechnic products to be careful in buying fireworks for the holiday season. The agency also reminded buyers to buy only from certified and authorized manufacturers and dealers.

Under RA 7183, types of firecrackers that may be manufactured, sold and distributed include the following: Baby rocket, Bawang, El Diablo, Judah’s Belt, Paper Caps, Pulling of Strings, Sky Rocket (Kwitis), Small “Trianggulo” and other equivalent types to the foregoing. For pyrotechnic devices, the following are authorized: Butterfly, Fountain, Jumbo Regular, Luces, Mabuhay, Roman Candle, Sparklers, Tromplillo, Whistle Devices, “Pailaw” and other equivalent types.  The Philippine National Police is the primary agency in the enforcement of the Firecracker Law.

On the other hand, prohibited firecrackers include: Overweight (not more than 0.2 gram or 1/3 teaspoon), Oversized firecrackers like Super Lolo, Whistle Bomb etc. and Imported finished products. The law also prohibits fireworks fuses that burn less than three (3) seconds but not more than six (6) seconds. Mixture of phosphorous or sulfur with that of chlorate is also prohibited under the Firecrackers Law.

Firecracker and Pyrotechnic buyers are also reminded that under Section of RA 7183, it is prohibited to sell firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices to anyone under 18 years of age. Children using firecrackers must be supervised by adults. Penalties for violation of the Firecracker Law include a fine ranging from Php 20,000 to Php 30,000 and imprisonment from six (6) months to one (1) year.

In June 20, 2017, President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 28 confining use of firecrackers in community fireworks display in areas designated by the local government unit, where they can be used during events or occasions under conditions stipulated by the Executive Order. Other pyrotechnic devices are still governed by RA 7183.

Aside from buying certified products, the DTI-3 office also reminds buyers in the proper use and lighting of fireworks, since fireworks are known to cause injury and damage to property when used wrongly.

The list of fireworks manufacturers and corresponding product types with Philippine Standards Quality and Safety Mark can be accessed at the DTI website www.bps.dti.gov.ph ♦