ILOILO City — With Christmas and New Year celebrations fast approaching, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) has released a comprehensive list of 31 prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, warning that violators face confiscation, hefty fines, and possible criminal charges as authorities tighten enforcement across Western Visayas.
The move, anchored on Executive Order No. 28 and Republic Act 7183, is aimed at preventing firecracker-related injuries, fires, and fatalities, particularly among children, during the holiday season.
PRO-6 said the list should serve as a clear guide for both consumers and vendors to avoid banned items.
Among the prohibited firecrackers are Watusi, Piccolo, Poppop, Five Star (Big), Pla-Pla, Lolo Thunder, Giant Bawang, Giant Whistle Bomb, Special, Atomic Bomb, Atomic Triangle, Large-Size Judas Belt, Goodbye De Lima, Hello Columbia, Goodbye Napoles, Super Yolanda, Mother Rockets, King Kong, Kwiton, Super Lolo, Goodbye Bading, Goodbye Philippines, Bin Laden, Coke-In-Can, Pillbox, Kabasi, Tuna, Goodbye Chismosa, Dart Bomb, GHP Nuclear, and Boga.
“The public are advised to purchase and use only certified Philippine Standard fireworks and firecrackers from registered retailers and dealers,” PRO-6 said, stressing that compliance with the law is key to a safe, peaceful, and injury-free Christmas celebration.
Authorities also urged residents to report the sale or use of illegal firecrackers and any suspicious activities by dialing 911 or contacting the following police provincial office (PPO) hotlines:
* Aklan PPO – 0998-598-6108
* Antique PPO – 0998-598-6130
* Capiz PPO – 0918-962-6477
* Guimaras PPO – 0998-598-6180
* Iloilo PPO – 0999-529-8131
* Iloilo City PO – 0908-377-0194
* Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6 – 0998-598-7409
* PRO-6 Regional Hotline – 0998-598-6101
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Region 6 said it will intensify inspections of establishments selling firecrackers and designated firecracker zones to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
In an interview with DYRI RMN Iloilo, Senior Fire Officer 1 Denmark Macoco, chief arson officer of BFP-6, said violators risk the confiscation of their license to operate, penalties ranging from P20,000 to P30,000, and criminal charges for violating Republic Act 7183.
“Once violations are confirmed, we will impose penalties and file cases accordingly,” Macoco said.
BFP inspections will also cover compliance with essential safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, fine sand, and water, as well as the strict enforcement of rules against testing firecrackers, smoking in selling areas, and selling to minors.
In Iloilo City, authorities reiterated that only two areas are designated annually as firecracker zones: Barangay Buhang in Jaro district and C5 Road in Arevalo district.
Officials emphasized that vigilance, discipline, and adherence to the law remain the best safeguards to ensure that holiday celebrations remain joyful — and tragedy-free./PN
