Halt on issuance of new firecracker licenses welcomed

MALOLOS, Philippines  —   Fireworks industry stakeholders have welcomed President Duterte’s Memorandum Order 31 suspending the issuance of new licenses and permits for the manufacture, sale and distribution of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices. 

The President signed the memorandum on Oct. 29.

“The suspension... shall remain in effect until declared lifted by the Office of the President upon recommendation of the PNP (Philippine National Police) chief and his submission of a report on the review undertaken on existing licenses and permits,” the memorandum stated.

The order will benefit existing players, Jovenson Ong, president of the Philippine Fireworks Association, told The STAR. 

Ong said most injuries were caused by smuggled firecrackers. 

Lea Alapide, president of the Philippine Pyrotechnics Manufacturers and Dealers Association Inc., said they would meet with PNP officials at Camp Crame on Monday to discuss the parameters of the President’s order. 

The memorandum also ordered the PNP to confiscate and destroy prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices; revoke the licenses and permits of those found violating existing laws, rules and regulations, and ensure that manufacturers, distributors and retailers comply with the guidelines.