Robredo directs fire bureau to intensify inspection of fireworks-related firms
MANILA, Philippines—Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo on Tuesday directed the Bureau of Fire Protection to beef up its inspection of establishments that manufacture, store and sell fireworks.
In a statement, Robredo directed the BFP to ensure the establishments’ compliance with documentary requirements such as Fire Safety Inspection Certificates and business permits.
He said the directive was “part of our effort to ensure a fire-free Christmas and New Year celebrations nationwide.”
The BFP will conduct follow-up inspections of establishments, said the DILG secretary, adding that provisions of the Revised Fire Code of the Philippines 2008 or Republic Act 9514 and other laws, rules and regulations shall apply to companies or activities that are deemed unsafe.
As part of their compliance with Robredo’s directive, BFP Region 3 will launch its Task Force “Ingat Paputok” on Wednesday, kicking off the program with inspection of factories and shops engaged in the manufacture, distribution and sale of fireworks, especially in Bulacan.
Chief Superintendent Ariel Barayuga, director of the BFP Region 3, in his report to Robredo said the task force would ensure that RA 9514 was being followed by the establishments.
Article continues after this advertisementBarayuga said that the task force will check if establishments have “No Smoking” signs in their area, are equipped with fire extinguishers, water, or sand for fire suppression, advise owners of the establishments they visit on issues on fire hazards and excessive volume of fireworks.
Article continues after this advertisementThe said team will also ban the sale of fireworks to children and prohibit the use of open flames near such establishments.
“We do not want to experience the tragic fire incidents that occurred in Turo, Bocaue, Bulacan last January 1, 2008… (and) in Cavite in 2009,” Robredo explained.
The said fire in Bulacan gutted 13 firecracker retailer stores while the one that ravaged a factory in Cavite killed eight and left some 70 others wounded in its wake.
