PNP inspects firecracker stalls in Bocaue ahead of holidays

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday conducted inspections of firecracker and pyrotechnic stalls in Bocaue, Bulacan, as part of heightened preparations for the holiday season, when firecracker-related incidents typically rise.

PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez, together with the Bulacan provincial government, led the joint inspection in the town known as the country’s fireworks capital.

Nartatez said the inspection aims to ensure compliance with safety standards and protect the public during the expected surge in holiday revelries.

“We would like to reduce ‘yung risks of death, loss of property at firecracker incidents,” he added.

Meanwhile, Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando said the provincial government is also looking to strengthen small pyrotechnic businesses by helping them form cooperatives and by providing support in securing proper licenses.

Fernando stressed the need prioritize small business owners.

"We are increasing assistance to them because they are the lifeblood that sustains our industries and businesses,” her said, while also urging the public to avoid buying illegal firecrackers.

During the inspection, authorities posted a list of prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices near the stalls to guide both vendors and consumers.

Earlier, the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) warned the public against the use of illegal firecrackers and fireworks and controlled pyrotechnic devices (FCPDs), including items such as watusi, piccolo, five-star, giant bawang, atomic bomb, large-size Judas belt, super lolo, boga, and other unlabeled or oversized products. Imported finished firecracker products are also prohibited.

The FEO said FCPDs are considered illegal if they contain more than one-third teaspoon or over 0.2 gram of explosive content, or if they are oversized.

Firecrackers that use mixed chemicals such as sulfur and/or phosphorus with chlorates are likewise banned.

Authorities clarified that Class 1, 2, and 3 FCPDs may be used by the general public, while Class 4 items are strictly for licensed pyrotechnicians and fireworks display operators.

The FEO also stressed that fuses must burn for no less than three seconds and no more than six seconds to meet safety standards.

The Department of Health earlier reminded the public, especially the youth, to refrain from using firecrackers and to consider safer alternatives in welcoming the holiday season, including the upcoming New Year 2026.