Police have identified the man responsible for the fireworks display in Davao City during the New Year revelry, which violated the city’s existing ban.

The man is said to be a businessman from Placer, Surigao del Norte. He reportedly visited his house in Davao City on December 31, 2024 to celebrate the New Year during which he initiated the fireworks display. He left the following day.

According to the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), a witness saw the man carrying a black bag and lit a pyrotechnic device at the riprap area in NHA Bangkal.

Other witnesses reportedly tried to stop the man but he allegedly refused to listen.

Authorities recovered from the area the materials used in the fireworks display.

DCPO has coordinated with authorities in Surigao del Norte.

The businessman will face charges for alleged violation of the city ordinance and the law that regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices (RA 7183).

The ban on firecrackers in Davao City has been in place for over a decade.