Iloilo pyrotechnics community undergoes safety seminar

A FIREWORKS safety seminar was conducted recently by the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Pyrotechnic Manufacturers and Dealers Association to more than 400 manufacturers and dealers in Western Visayas.

Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the seminar was very timely, considering that the region, especially Arevalo district, is a gross manufacturer of quality fireworks and other pyrotechnics that are also marketed in several areas outside Iloilo City.

The holiday season is fast approaching and it is premier Filipino culture and tradition to use firecrackers and other pyrotechnics to celebrate Christmas, New Year and other holidays during the year, said Mabilog.

Arevalo district in Iloilo City is recognized as the pyrotechnics capital of the Visayas and many barangay residents here considered fireworks manufacturing as their main source of livelihood.

The seminar was conducted right in Arevalo where several manufacturers reside and maintain backyard factory for pyrotechnics.

Mabilog said that through the seminar, pertinent provisions of Republic Act 7183 or an Act regulating the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices will help local manufacturers prevent accidents that cause damages and even deaths.

Participants mostly from Arevalo district were also given safety tips in packaging, storage, store display and transport of the merchandise.

A seminar certificate is part of the City Government requirements in the application and renewal of license for firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices by manufacturers, dealers and retailers. (LCP)