Public Safety Concerns and Injury Reports
- The Department of Health identifies the "Piccolo" firecracker as a leading cause of firecracker-related injuries.
Directives to the Philippine National Police and Other Agencies
- Conduct inspections to verify compliance with existing laws, rules, and regulations including safety guidelines and reporting requirements.
- Confiscate and destroy prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices as mandated by law.
- Cancel or revoke licenses and permits of violators and confiscate their inventories.
- Enforce the ban on sale of firecrackers to persons under 18 years of age, requiring proof of age when necessary.
- Enforce the prohibition on importing finished firecrackers and fireworks under Section 6 of RA No. 7183.
Suspension of New Licenses and Permits
- Suspend processing of new licenses and permits pending a review of compliance by current licensees and permittees.
- Allow continuation of issuance of other necessary permits for existing licensees, e.g., permits to purchase or transport ingredients, unless violations are found.
- Suspension stays in effect until lifted by the Office of the President upon a recommendation by the PNP Chief supported by a compliance report.
Interagency Cooperation and Support
- All government departments, agencies, and government-owned or -controlled corporations are mandated to assist in implementing these directives.
Enforcement Emphasis
- The memorandum underscores strict enforcement of laws and regulations to promote public safety, order, and national security regarding firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.