Firecracker prices in Bocaue, Bulacan up 10-15%

Prices of sparklers and fountains in Bulacan have gone up by as much as 15 percent, given the limited supply during the holiday season.

In a report on GMA's "24 Oras" on Thursday, prices of sparklers and fountains in Bocaue, Bulacan were said to have increased by 10 to 15 percent.

Sparklers, which were reported to have been priced three for P100 previously, are now on sale for P50 to P60 per piece.

According to the Philippine Pyrotechnics Manufacturers and Dealers Association Inc., the limited supply comes as manufacturers held back on production this year due to new regulations on firework production.

"Maraming guidelines, maraming pronouncement na noon una, hindi naging sigurado para sa mga manggagawa, so nagkaroon ng delay, nagkaroon ng supply na kulang sa chemicals, ganon," said Leah Alapide, president of the association.

For its part, the Business Permits and Licensing Office of Bocaue, Bulacan said there were also less manufacturers that applied this year, as they were apprehensive to do business given the lack of clear guidelines.

"Nag-aalangan sila dahil baka biglang may bagong lumabas na guidelines o kaya pagbabawal, ganon," said Marcelino Salonga, officer-in-charge of the office.

"Pangalawa nga, 'yung lumabas na Executive Order 28 na kung saan nire-regulate 'yung paggamit (ng paputok)," he elaborated.

Signed in June 2017, EO 28 states that firecracker use will be confined to community fireworks display "to minimize the risk of injuries and casualties." —Jon Viktor Cabuenas/ LDF, GMA News