By Jennifer P. Rendon
Authorities from the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) have begun inspecting firecracker and pyrotechnics stalls ahead of the New Year’s Eve celebration.
The ICPO initiated simultaneous inspections on Dec. 27 across designated selling areas in various districts of Iloilo City.
Colonel Kim Legada, Iloilo City police chief, said the inspections are part of the ICPO’s proactive measures to ensure a safe and secure New Year celebration.
On Friday afternoon, Police Lt. Col. Lorenez Losaria, ICPO Deputy City Director for Operations, and Capt. Mary Jane Panes, Iloilo City Police Station 3 commander, conducted a random check at the designated selling zone in Barangay Buhang, Jaro, Iloilo City. Personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection Region 6 (BFP-6) joined the operation.
Simultaneously, another team led by Lt. Col. Rene Obregon Jr., head of the ICPO City Operations and Management Unit, inspected stalls along C1 Road in Arevalo, Iloilo City.
Legada said the inspections aim to ensure compliance with Executive Order No. 160, Series of 2024, issued by Mayor Jerry Treñas.
Inspection teams verify vendors’ permits to operate within designated zones and ensure compliance with safety regulations, including the availability of fire extinguishers, fine sand, and water for emergencies.
The teams also enforce rules prohibiting testing of firecrackers, smoking in selling areas, and sales to minors. Vendors are reminded not to sell illegal firecrackers and to strictly adhere to safety protocols to prevent accidents.
Legada has instructed all ICPO stations to continue joint inspections with relevant agencies across designated firecracker zones until the New Year.
“These inspections are essential to maintaining safety and ensuring compliance with regulations,” Legada said. “Let us work together to guarantee a peaceful and accident-free New Year celebration.”
The ICPO also urged the public to celebrate responsibly and report violations or suspicious activities related to firecrackers and pyrotechnics. Concerns can be reported at the nearest police station or through ICPO’s hotline numbers: 0908-377-0194 and 335-0299.
