The Philippine National Police (PNP) has shifted its focus on the drive against sellers and manufacturers of firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials after what it described as peaceful the celebration of Christmas.
PNP officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa said he had already instructed police commanders to intensify the operations to ensure that no illegal firecrackers would be sold for the New Year revelry.
“There had been a downtrend in the number of firecracker-related injuries, we always aspire for zero casualties,” said Gamboa.
He then cited the Executive Order signed by President Duterte, which regulates the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnics devices nationwide, as the reason behind police action.
The implementation of Republic Act 7183 or “An Act of Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use Of Firecrackers And Other Pyrotechnic Devices and PNP Memorandum Order 31 dated October 31, 2018 has strengthened the government’s campaign against illegal manufacturers and distributors of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
Under its provisions, the PNP is beefing up its force to provide security in identified firecrackers and pyrotechnic zones, and firecracker and pyrotechnic displays in respective areas in coordination with appropriate agencies and stakeholders.
At the same time, police units will conduct inspections of the manufacturing complex, warehouse, and processing area of manufacturers and dealers in respective areas of responsibility to ensure the observance of safety guidelines. (Aaron Recuenco)
