ILOILO City – This southern city has identified areas where the selling and buying of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices are allowed.
Mayor Jerry Treñas on Monday issued Executive Order No. 145 detailing guidelines on the sale, use and manufacture of fireworks.
Here’s where Ilonggos could buy and sell fireworks and pyrotechnics in the city:
* Circumferential Road 1, corner Jocson Street (in Arevalo);
* Circumferential Road 1, corner Iloilo East Coast-Capiz along Ondoy’s Sugbahan (in Jaro); and * Muelle Loney Street, along Riverside front of Muelle Loney Statue (in City Proper).
The sale of fireworks is allowed starting Dec. 18 to Dec. 31. Sellers will have to pay a P500 permit fee at the City Treasurer’s Office.
Selling of said items to minors are not allowed.
Citing Republic Act 9514 (Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008) and the Department of Interior and Local Government’s Memorandum Circular 2016-176, Treñas’ EO provides that fireworks and pyrotechnic devices display zone shall be separated from each other by a firewall with a fire resistance rating of not less than two hours, as determined by the Bureau of Fire Protection.
It added that shopping malls and other similar establishments shall not be utilized as fireworks and pyrotechnic devices display zone, unless the selling is done via media presentation and other means.
Moreover, fire extinguishers must also be provided in the area.
Smoking within fifteen meters from a display center, testing of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices, and stove explosive flames and electrical heaters are prohibited.
Meanwhile, a portion of the Iloilo River Esplanade in Barangay Progreso, Lapuz is declared as the authorized venue for fireworks and pyrotechnic display during the Dinagyang Festival as well as future events.
“This holiday season, let us protect the welfare of our family and the community, especially on the use of fireworks. Let us avoid accidents during this season. Please follow these guidelines for the protection of all,” said Treñas.
What are the prohibited types of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices?
The sale, distribution, manufacture and use of the following fireworks and pyrotechnic devices are prohibited:
* those whose net explosives ingredient contents exceed three teaspoons;
* those that will endanger life and limb such as atomic big triangulo, super, lolo and their equivalent;
* those that use sulfur and/or phosphorous mixed with chlorates, those sold without necessary permits and licenses; and
* those determined by the PNP and BFP as dangerous to life and limb; and
* Class 4 fireworks and pyrotechnic devices sold to and used by persons not qualified as licensed pyrotechnicians and/or licensed fireworks display operators.
Moreover, areas for fireworks and pyrotechnic devices manufacturing should be at least 300 meters from the nearest residential area.
It shall also be governed by, but not limited to safety measures such as all buildings shall have adequate ventilation, no concrete floors, must be leak-proof and furnished with necessary fire extinguishers.
The warehouse must also be at least 50 meters away from any processing station.
Corresponding penalties await violators./PN
