Authorities in Lapu-Lapu City have ramped up safety inspections of firecracker stalls as the Christmas season gets underway. The coordinated effort, which began on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, aims to enforce strict safety rules and prevent accidents related to fireworks.
Strict Limits and Safety Zones Enforced
Led by the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and local barangay officials, the inspections are ensuring vendors adhere to new restrictions. Colonel Antonietto Cañete, the LCPO officer-in-charge, stated that each stall is now limited to a maximum of 50 kilograms of firecrackers and 500 kilograms of pyrotechnics. He emphasized that safe distances between stalls and from public areas are being strictly observed, with monitoring to increase as holiday shoppers arrive.
Fire officials are also discouraging the sale of fireworks near residential zones. Lapu-Lapu City District Fire Marshal Arnel Abella highlighted the importance of this measure to protect communities.
Heavy Penalties for Violators
The crackdown is backed by serious legal consequences. Colonel Elmer Cinco, chief of the Regional Civil Security Unit 7, detailed that penalties under Republic Act 7183 include imprisonment from six months to one year, permit revocation, and fines ranging from P20,000 to P30,000. While initial inspections have not found illegal fireworks, authorities promise vigilance will continue through the holidays until January.
Vendors Cooperate in Designated Area
Local vendors, organized under the Kaabag Fireworks Retailers Association (KFRA), are cooperating with the safety drive. KFRA head Luzviminda Ando confirmed that its 82 member vendors are only allowed to operate within a specified zone: from Sitio Kinalumsan in Barangay Canjulao to Tacan New Road in Barangay Babag. The association works with authorities to ensure sales and storage meet all safety standards.
To maintain compliance, fire safety teams are conducting rigorous checks. SFO2 Lord Jimbell Parba, Babag Fire Station Commander, said their team performs roving inspections twice daily. He warned that any vendor breaching guidelines discussed in pre-season seminars risks having their certificates or clearances revoked.
The multi-agency initiative underscores Lapu-Lapu City's commitment to a festive yet accident-free Yuletide celebration for all residents.
