Firecracker vendors urged to get permits

CEBU - With Christmas season just around the corner, Cebu City police director Patrocinio Comendador has advised those who wish to engage in firecracker manufacturing to first secure the required permits, otherwise their products will be confiscated.

Comendador said that days from now, many persons, including the small-time traders will start selling firecracker and pyrotechnic products in different places in the city.

But several sidewalk vendors in Colon Street said it will be very difficult for them to secure the required permit that will allow them to engage in the business.

Officials of the Firearms and Explosives Division said those who wish to engage in selling firecrackers and pyrotechnics must get their products from the legitimate manufacturers or dealers. They are required to obtain a photocopy of the dealer’s license and a letter of authorization allowing them to sell the products.

The small-time traders also need to secure police clearance, mayor’s permit, fire safety clearance, and they should pay P1,000 as retailer’s permit fee directly at the Land Bank of the Philippines.

All documents should be submitted to the Firearms and Explosives Division, through its local office at the Camp Sergio Osmeña, together with a letter request.

 “Kon wala sila’y permit nga mapakita sa kapolisan, sakmiton g’yod ang ilang mga baligya nga rebentador,” Comendador said.

The manufacturers of firecrackers and pyrotechnics in barangay Babag, Lapu-Lapu City, are already busy because of several orders coming from different places in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Grace Pungasi of JP Fireworks, one of the few licensed firecracker manufacturers in Lapu-Lapu City, encouraged the public to buy only from legitimate suppliers to prevent their products from being seized. – Rene U. Borromeo/WAB (THE FREEMAN)