‘Observe designated firecrackers zone’

By: Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Executive Assistant III Ernesto Pineda appealed to residents here and village officials to observe the prescribed and designated community zones for firecrackers.

Pineda, head of the city government Task Force Paputok, said the government has warned vendors against selling unlicensed firecrackers to ensure public safety during the New Year’s Eve celebration.

He added that firecrackers will only be sold at the Reclamation Area in Bacolod City. The items must be supplied by licensed manufacturers and dealers and should bear the Philippine product standard mark.

“Selling quality products will also result in better sales for vendors since customers will trust them because they value the buyers’ safety.”

Pineda said 68 vendors were issued special permits to sell in the designated area until December 31.

Vendors who sell firecrackers without permit can be detained and charged for violation of Republic Act 7183 which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.

Pineda said there are only two licensed manufacturers in Negros Occidental – one in Bacolod City and another in Hinigaran town.

The Pope John Paul II Tower site at the Reclamation Area remains as the only designated place for the sale of firecrackers and pyrotechnics in this city.

Pineda said those who sell outside the designated area are illegal.