Cebu City imposes stricter rules on firecrackers use

Local

TO ENSURE safety and prevent accidents during the holiday season, the Cebu City Government has implemented stricter rules on the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia signed Executive Order No. 26, Series of 2024, on December 19, aiming to balance the Filipino cultural tradition of fireworks with the need to protect public safety.

The order regulates the manufacturing, sale, distribution, and use of fireworks to minimize injuries and safeguard lives and property.

Permitted firecrackers and pyrotechnics

The order allows specific firecrackers and pyrotechnics classified into two categories: those suitable for indoor use and those appropriate for outdoor use in confined spaces.

Firecrackers and fireworks for indoor use include caps, smoke devices, party poppers, table bombs, and throwdowns such as "bawang" or "triangulo."

Handheld and non-handheld sparklers, cracker snaps, and serpent fireworks are also permitted.

These devices are considered safer and are typically used for small-scale celebrations within homes or enclosed areas.

Meanwhile, for outdoor use, the order allows bangers like "El Diablo," "Labintador," and "Judas Belt," as well as fountains, Roman candles, mines, and wheels such as "Trompillo."

Rockets, combination fireworks, and shells, including shell-in-mortar, are also approved, provided they meet safety standards.

These devices are designed for use in relatively confined outdoor spaces and must adhere to distance guidelines—five meters for Class 2 fireworks and twenty-five meters or more for Class 3 fireworks.

Banned firecrackers and pyrotechnics

To address safety concerns, the city has prohibited the use, sale, and manufacture of high-risk firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

Among the banned items are "Goodbye Philippines," "Atomic Bomb," "Piccolo," "Big Judah's Belt," "Kabasi," and "Goodbye Earth." These devices have been classified as hazardous due to their potential to cause severe injuries or damage.

Other prohibited items include "Lolo Thunder," "Bin Laden," "Mother Rockets," "Giant Whistle Bomb," and various other high-powered firecrackers known for their excessive explosive strength.

Businesses involved in selling firecrackers and fireworks must comply with strict requirements under the executive order.

Before obtaining a business permit, sellers must secure a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) from the City Fire Marshal. The City Treasurer's Office is tasked with inspecting establishments to ensure adherence to the regulations.

This multi-level inspection process aims to prevent the illegal sale of banned items and guarantee that only safe and approved devices are distributed within the city.

The executive order draws authority from Republic Act No. 7183, which mandates the regulation of fireworks for public safety and national security, and Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, which grants local governments the power to safeguard community welfare.

Effective immediately upon signing, the executive order will remain in force until officially revoked. It also includes a severability clause, ensuring that its remaining provisions stay valid even if any part is declared unconstitutional or invalid.

Through these measures, the Cebu City Government aims to foster a safer environment while honoring the joy and tradition of fireworks celebrations.(MyTVCebu)