The city government of Davao have issued a strong reminder to residents and visitors that firecrackers remain strictly prohibited in the city, especially as holiday celebrations approach.
The enforcement is based on City Ordinance No. 060-02, which has long been credited for preventing firecracker-related injuries, fires, and pollution.
Under the ordinance, penalties for violators include: first offense: P1,000 fine or 20–30 days imprisonment, or both; second offense: P3,000 fine or 1–3 months imprisonment, or both; and third offense: P5,000 fine or 3–6 months imprisonment, or both.
The ban also includes improvised explosive devices such as bamboo and PVC cannons.
The city gov’t of Davao urged the public to report any individuals selling or using firecrackers by calling 911.
The city gov’t of Davao also encouraged residents to celebrate safely using traditional “Davao-style” alternatives like torotots, pots and pans, and other harmless noisemakers.
Meanwhile, acting City Director Col. Mannan Muarip of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) said police and other enforcement units have already intensified citywide patrols to ensure full compliance of ordinance.
Muarip also reaffirmed the city’s zero-tolerance policy, warning that anyone caught selling, manufacturing, distributing, possessing, or using firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices will face immediate legal action.
“Davao City has enjoyed peaceful and injury-free celebrations for more than 20 years because people respected the firecracker ban. Let this be a strong warning: violators will be dealt with accordingly. There will be no mercy for offenders,” Muarip said.
“Our priority is the safety of every Dabawenyo. Let us welcome the New Year the Davao way—peaceful, disciplined, and injury-free,” Muarip added.
