Fireworks makers worried over smuggled Chinese pyrotechnics

SANTA MARIA, Bulacan – At least 200 containers of smuggled pyrotechnic products from China are being shipped to the Philippines yearly.

Joven Ong, president of Philippine Fireworks Association, bared this during the Pyrotechnic Regulatory Board of Bulacan’s inspection of fireworks stores in the towns of Bocaue and San Rafael on Friday.

Ong said he got the information from his sources based in mainland China.

Under Republic Act 7183, importation of finished pyrotechnic products is prohibited.

Piccolo, the main cause of injuries during the New Year’s revelry, is among the pyrotechnic products smuggled into the Philippines. Ong said the biggest wholesaler of

piccolo is based in Divisoria, where retail stores get their supplies.

Local industry players have been complaining about the proliferation of piccolo in the domestic market. Ong maintained that piccolo is not manufactured by local fireworks manufacturers.

President Duterte’s Executive Order 28 regulates the use of pyrotechnics and fireworks.

Under the order, pyrotechnics can be used outside the residence while fireworks should be displayed in areas designated by the local governments.

Celso Cruz, chairman emeritus of the Philippine Manufacturers and Dealers Association Inc., said the implementing rules and regulations for EO 28 were signed and would take effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.