Firecracker-related fires up by 258%

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December 4, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines —  The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has intensified its information drive as firecracker-related fires surged by over 258 percent.

BFP chief Jesus Fernandez said the bureau would be on full alert from Dec. 23 until Jan. 1, 2026 as part of “Oplan Paalala: Iwas Paputok,” a nationwide campaign to reduce fire hazards.

Fernandez urged the public to avoid using firecrackers and opt for alternative devices in celebrating the Yuletide season.

He issued the reminder after the BFP recorded a surge in fires caused by fireworks and pyrotechnics, from 31 in 2024 to 111 as of yesterday.

“Our mission is clear: protect every community through proactive prevention, rapid response and effective coordination,” Fernandez said.

Over 31,000 BFP personnel will be on standby and ready to respond to emergencies this month, he said.

Fernandez said the BFP would conduct inspections in places of assembly,  community information campaigns and emergency medical services.

Meanwhile, the labor department ordered establishments manufacturing and selling pyrotechnics to comply with occupational and safety regulations to protect workers.