Pyrotechnics vendors seek deferment of ban in Kidapawan

KIDAPAWAN CITY - Pyrotechnics vendors here have asked the city government to reconsider the implementation of its ordinance banning the sale of their merchandise in time for the holidays.

The local campaign against sale of pyrotechnics and firecrackers in the city is being led personally by Kidapawan City Mayor Joseph Evangelista.

Edzel Ariel, president of the Kidapawan City Fireworks Vendors Association, said they are ready to forge a deal with the mayor’s office and the city council to sell only pyrotechnics that are safe to use during the Yuletide Season revelries.

“We can assure our local officials that firecrackers will not be sold in any store, or roadside vending stall in the city. We shall also help prevent any smuggling in of firecrackers into the city,” Ariel told reporters.

Ariel said many of their member-traders have procured their supplies as early as last August and they stand to lose if the pyrotechnics and firecracker ban is implemented next month.

A member of the city council, Francis Palmones, said the city government is merely re-imposing a ban, which was first promulgated in 1995.

Evangelista earlier said he decided to strictly enforce the ban this year to ensure the safety of the public from possible reckless use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics can cause.

Members of the city council announced Friday that they will discuss and decide on the petition of the vendors next week.