The local government of Danao City announced on Monday that it has set rules in regulating the manufacture, sale or use of firecrackers.

Danao City Mayor Thomas Mark Durano issued Executive Order 71 for the purpose, which will regulate the manufacture, sale, distribution, or use of firecrackers or pyrotechnic devices during Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Durano said it aims to minimize the number of firecracker-related injuries and casualties in the city, adding that it is expected to lessen the harmful effects of hazardous chemicals and pollutants in firecrackers and fireworks; protect homes, business establishments and other structures against incidental fire and designate a display area to sell firecrackers, fireworks, and other pyrotechnic devices.

The EO mandated manufacturers and dealers to secure a license or permit from the chief of police of the Cebu Provincial Police Office and the Office of the City Mayor.

It also identified firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices that shall be allowed to be sold to the public, such as baby rocket, bawang, small triangles, pulling of strings, paper caps, El diablo, watusi, Judas Belt and sky rocket for firecrackers; and sparklers, fountain, jumbo regular and special, mabuhay, roman candle, trompillo, airwolf, whistle device and butterfly for pyrotechnic devices.

The sale of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices in the city shall only be allowed from 9 December to 2 January 2024, but its sale will be prohibited within shopping malls, tiangge, public sidewalks, stores and other similar establishments.

Those who violate the policy will face the penalty of imprisonment and a fine of P20,000 to P30,000 and the city government will also revoke their license and business permit and their inventory or stocks will be confiscated.