METRO

Pasig intensifies crackdown on illegal firecrackers

Neil Alcober · Dec 27, 2025, 11:19 PM

As the holiday season continues, imported firecrackers and fireworks are now being sold at Divisoria, Manila, eight days before New Year’s Eve. The Philippine National Police have urged local government units to designate firecracker zones for public safety. — Photograph by Toto Lozano for DAILY TRIBUNE

There is no "Christmas consideration" or "special permit" this year, as Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto ensures that those who are selling firecrackers in the city will be apprehended before the New Year.

On Friday, 26 December, the Pasig City Police arrested a man who was selling illegal firecrackers via Facebook.

According to the mayor, the suspect even boasted that the firecrackers he was selling were "Bocaue prices" and was willing to meet up within Pasig.

“Nanghuhuli po kami ngayon ng mga nagtitinda ng illegal firecrackers. Ito po kahapon, naaresto ng PNP Pasig ang isang online seller at kinumpiska ang mga tinda niyang paputok,” the mayor said.

“Kahit ‘yung nagmamakaawa sa opisina kahapon, hindi na po pinagbigyan,” added Sotto, after confirming that there are zero permits or that they did not issue any licenses to sell firecrackers this year.

The mayor, however, admitted that Pasig's location is a major challenge, as it is close to firework factories and distributors.

“Ang problema lang talaga natin, ang lapit sa atin ng mga pagawaan at distributor ng paputok kaya nakakapasok at nakakapasok pa rin. Nasa gitna rin tayo, may boundary sa pitong LGU, kaya nagiging problema rin ito sa ibang usapin,” the mayor explained.

Sotto also assured that the local police and the barangays will continue their strict monitoring and operations to apprehend those selling illegal firecrackers and ensure a safe New Year celebration.

According to 2025 data from the Department of Health (DOH), there were 28 recorded cases of firecracker-related injuries from 21 December to 25 December. As of Saturday, 27 December, the total number of injuries has increased to 57, including two children who lost fingers in separate firework explosions.

According to the DOH, 35 of the 57 victims are minors, and most sustained multiple injuries and burns to various parts of their bodies.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police reported 47 firecracker-related injuries from 16 December to 26 December, and this number is expected to increase as the peak of the celebration approaches. Police also recorded one fatality from a stray bullet and 23 individuals arrested for the illegal sale of firecrackers.

Although the number is lower compared to last year, the DOH again warned that firecrackers—whether legal or illegal—remain dangerous, especially for children.