As the holiday celebrations light up across Central Luzon, police are reminding the public to celebrate safely by knowing which firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices are allowed — and which are strictly banned.

The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3), through its Regional Civil Security Unit (RCSU-3), said the advisory forms part of its intensified Ligtas Paskuhan Campaign, aimed at keeping the Christmas and New Year festivities safe, orderly, and free from firecracker-related injuries.

Police Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. stressed that the sale, distribution and use of illegal firecrackers remain strictly prohibited. He also warned vendors and buyers that even permitted firecrackers may only be sold in authorized firecracker zones, in accordance with existing laws and PNP regulations.

Police clarified that only locally made, properly labeled, non-oversized, and non-overweight firecrackers are allowed. These include Baby Rocket, Bawang, El Diablo, Judas Belt, Paper Caps, Pulling of Strings, Sky Rocket (Kwitis) and Small Triangulo.

For pyrotechnic devices or pailaw, the allowed list includes Butterfly, Fountain, Jumbo (Regular and Special), Luces, Mabuhay, Roman Candle, Sparklers, Trompillo, Whistle Device, and similar items that meet safety standards and permit requirements.

On the other hand, PRO3 reiterated that several firecrackers remain strictly prohibited due to their dangerous nature. These include Watusi, Piccolo, Poppop, Five Star (Big), Pla-Pla, Lolo Thunder, Giant Bawang, Giant Whistle Bomb, Atomic Bomb, Atomic Triangle, Large-Size Judas Belt, Goodbye Delima, Hello Columbia, Goodbye Napoles, Super Yolanda, Mother Rockets, Kwiton, Super Lolo, Goodbye Bading, Goodbye Philippines, Bin Laden, Coke-in-Can, Pillbox and Kabasi.

Also banned are oversized or overweight firecrackers, those with unsafe fuse burn times, imported finished fireworks, unlabeled locally made items, devices containing hazardous chemical mixtures, polyvinyl pipe “boga” devices, and any manufacture, sale, transport, or distribution of firecrackers without the required permits.

The regional director warned that violators will face confiscation of items, fines and possible criminal charges. To promote safer celebrations, PRO3 is also encouraging LGU-organized community firework displays, provided these are held in designated areas and coordinated closely with the PNP.

Police are urging the public to buy fireworks only from authorized vendors, steer clear of illegal items, and promptly report violations to the nearest police station or by calling 911.