Carlos alerts PNP units to enforce ‘cracker ban
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief, General Dionardo B. Carlos on Wednesday ordered all 17 police regional offices to strictly enforce the firecracker ban to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration of the yuletide season.
“The PNP will make sure the provisions on regulating, manufacturing and distributing firecrackers will be strictly implemented based on Executive Order No. 28 that provides for the Regulation and Control of the Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devices,” the top cop said.
The PNP will particularly set their sights on places in the country where firecrackers and pyrotechnics are known to be being manufactured, both legally in licensed factories and illegally in clandestine shops.
These are particularly found in some parts of Central Luzon specifically in Bulacan.
“The PNP will enforce the provisions of Executive Order No. 28 to the letter,” Carlos said as he reiterated the full support of the PNP to the Department of Health in promoting the national advocacy for safety in the celebration of the holiday season that is traditionally marked by festive revelry accentuated by fireworks.
The PNP will make it a priority to safeguard every locality with enough police manpower, he said. Each police station will coordinate with their respective local government unit to identify and monitor the designated firecracker zones too, he added.
“These zones shall be carefully inspected in coordination with public safety agencies such as the Bureau of Fire Protection and local DRRMC. The PNP is serving fair warning to manufacturers and retailers not to engage in the distribution of illegal firecrackers, at the risk of confiscation and arrest,” Gen. Carlos emphasized.
He also encouraged the public if possible to use safe alternatives in the celebration of the holidays.
The PNP also supports LGU initiatives to establish community fireworks displays in every barangay to do away with possible firecracker-related incidents, Gen. Carlos said.
