Authorities in Lapu-Lapu City have launched a proactive safety campaign, initiating inspections of all fireworks retailers starting Tuesday, December 16, 2025. This move aims to safeguard the public during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Strict Quotas and Severe Penalties for Violators
The city government has imposed clear and firm limits on the quantity of fireworks each retailer can stock. Each accredited store is permitted to sell a maximum of 50 kilograms of firecrackers and 500 kilograms of pyrotechnic devices. These measures are enforced under Republic Act 7183, the law regulating the manufacture, sale, and use of firecrackers.
Retailers found exceeding these limits or violating other provisions of the law face serious consequences. Penalties include imprisonment ranging from six months to one year, fines between 20,000 and 30,000 Philippine pesos, and the revocation of their business permit.
Daily Roving Inspections and Designated Sales Zone
To ensure strict compliance, the city's fire bureau will conduct roving inspections twice daily. These inspections have a dual purpose: to prevent the sale of illegal fireworks and to enforce a ban on smoking or cooking near the sales stalls, eliminating potential ignition sources.
The sale of fireworks is confined to a specific area to better manage risks. All 82 accredited retailers under the Kaabag Fireworks Retailers Association are only allowed to operate from Sitio Kinalumsan in Barangay Canjulao extending to Tacan New Road in Barangay Babag. This centralized zone allows for more effective monitoring by authorities.
A Community Effort for a Safe Holiday
The pre-holiday inspections and stringent rules underscore a community-wide effort to prevent injuries and fires. By concentrating sales in a designated area, limiting quantities, and conducting frequent checks, Lapu-Lapu City officials hope to balance tradition with public safety. Residents are encouraged to patronize only accredited retailers within the specified zone and to report any illegal sales activity to authorities.
