DTI, PNP seize unlicensed fireworks from Bocaue shops

Unlicensed fireworks were confiscated by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bocaue, Bulacan a few days before New Year's Day. 

Authorities conducted surprise inspections of firecrackers from shops where some items did not bear the Philippine Standard (PS) mark, according to Mariz Umali's "24 Oras" report on Tuesday. 

Over 659 pieces of fireworks worth P39,193 were seized following the random inspections.

Assistant Secretary Ann Claire Cabochan, chief of DTI's consumer protection arm, was alarmed over the availability of unlicensed fireworks in the market where people could buy them.

"It is a cause of concern because it simply shows that even if a product [that] is highly regulated needs a license, somehow it gets in the market where the ordinary consumer can buy [it]," Cabochan said.

She also warned that a firecracker could harm consumers if it is not certified.

"'Pag 'di dumaan sa certification process, mayroong danger (If it did not undergo the certification process, there is danger) that it will damage not only the property but also injure or cause fatalities," Cabochan said.

Retailer Isabel de Guzman vowed that they would only sell fireworks approved by the DTI. 

Another fireworks vendor, Gerrylyn Litana, expressed her displeasure with the seizure, but admitted a shortcoming on their part.

"May pagkakamali kaming retailer kasi 'di namin binubusisi," she said.

(We're at fault because we didn't check them thoroughly.)

Bulacan police chief Manuel Lukban, who was present during the inspection, said there were no illegal fireworks such as kwitis, and that this could be due to a global shortage of chemicals used in the manufacture of dangerous firecrackers.

The PNP had previously issued regulations regarding the use of fireworks during the holidays.

The Department of Health also urged people to avoid using firecrackers during the holidays because they can be hazardous to one's health and the environment. — Consuelo Marquez/VBL, GMA News