ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The city government of Zamboanga City has lifted the ban on the selling, possession and distribution of fireworks and firecrackers which was imposed in the aftermath of the Zamboanga Siege in 2013.
The lifting of the ban will however be in effect from December 1 to January 6 each year in time for the holiday season. Afterwhich, the ban will then be reimposed throughout the year.
Mayor John Dalipe recently approved the enactment of City Ordinance No. 632, which he said will continue to oversee all forms of firecrackers in compliance with the regulations outlined in RA 7183, also known as the “Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devices,” along with its Implementing Rules and Regulations, and other directives issued by competent authorities.
“Our honorable members believe that if we allow, if we liberalize the policy on commercial display of fireworks, this will also add to the joy of the season that we are celebrating,” City Secretary Atty. Kenneth Vincent Beldua emphasized during a press briefing in City Hall on December 19.
The ordinance specifies that only duly authorized and licensed individuals, business establishments, and permit holders are permitted to sell and distribute consumer pyrotechnics, restricted to establishments operating with registered business permits. Additionally, the ordinance strictly forbids minors, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory or related health issues from acquiring consumer pyrotechnic products. It emphasizes the need for neighbors and family to take precautions when purchasing such items to ensure the safety of these individuals.
Moreover, the purchase of consumer pyrotechnics is strictly designated for personal use, making it illegal for any individual to buy them in large quantities or significantly beyond personal needs, with the allowable amount not exceeding P5,000. Any violation of this provision will result in a penalty of P5,000 per offense.
Meanwhile, to ensure the safety and quick response for the holiday season, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) is on standby alert from December 24, 2023, to January 1, 2024, with rescue teams, including Search and Rescue (SAR), Fire Auxiliary, and Emergency Medical Service (EMS), ready for quick response to emergencies upon Mayor Dalipe’s orders. The operations center is also actively monitoring the situation in the 98 barangays.
The Department of Health also reminds the public of their Iwas Paputok Campaign this holiday season, i.e. to have a safe and non-toxic celebrations by saying “no” to firecrackers. (RVC/EDT/MLE/PIA-Zamboanga City)
