By Leonardo Micua
DAGUPAN CITY — The Dagupan City Council has approved an ordinance imposing a total ban on the manufacture and production of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices within the city, following two deadly explosions last year, one of which on Christmas Day, that killed three people and injured 14 others.
The measure, authored by Councilor Jose Netu Tamayo, was passed during the council’s regular session on January 19. Titled the Dagupan City Firecracker and Pyrotechnics Total Manufacture Ban and Public Safety Ordinance, it also prohibits the sale, distribution, display, possession, transport, and use of firecrackers.
The eight-page ordinance was approved after a well-attended public hearing conducted by the SP Committee on Laws, Ordinances and Judiciary, chaired by Tamayo, together with the Committees on Peace and Order and other council members.
The ordinance declares Dagupan a Firecracker-Free City, allowing only city-permitted community fireworks displays that comply with safety regulations and Executive Order No. 28.
Under the measure, all forms of firecracker manufacturing are banned at all times, regardless of volume, season, or purpose.
Prohibited activities include assembly, repacking, bundling, and preparation of firecrackers for sale. Selling or marketing firecrackers—whether through physical stores, stalls, deliveries, or online platforms—is likewise banned unless covered by a city-issued permit strictly for community displays.
Possession of firecrackers in homes, vehicles, warehouses, establishments, or public places is prohibited and subject to seizure.
The use or ignition of firecrackers anywhere in the city is also banned, except during authorized community displays.
Penalties for individuals include a ₱2,000 fine and confiscation for the first offense; ₱3,000 and/or community service for the second; and ₱5,000 and/or imprisonment under the Local Government Code for the third offense.
Business establishments face a ₱5,000 fine, confiscation, and closure for three to 10 days for the first offense; closure for 15 to 30 days for the second; and permit revocation, permanent closure, and possible criminal charges for the third offense.
Public officials who fail to enforce the ordinance due to willful refusal, gross negligence, or connivance may face administrative and criminal charges.