MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) directed itspersonnel nationwide to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) in setting up centralized markets for firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials ahead of the New Year revelry. Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., acting PNP chief, said the directive was issued as firecracker-related injuries continued to rise days before New Year’s Day. Data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed at least 28 firecracker-related injury cases recorded from Dec. 21 to 25, 2025, which authorities expect to increase as celebrations peak. Nartatez said concentrating the sale of firecrackers in specific areas would allow authorities to closely monitor vendors and products, while reducing risks to the public. “The main purpose is proper regulation and public safety. By designating a specific area in every town or city where people could buy firecrackers and pyrotechnic materials, we can easily monitor and prevent the selling of illegal firecrackers,” Nartatez said on Friday. He instructed police chiefs to work closely with LGUs in identifying safe locations for the sellers and in setting the allowable period for the sale. Under the plan, designated areas will have police present, in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). Firetrucks and emergency responders will also be placed on standby to immediately address any untoward incident, Nartatez said. He added that centralized selling areas would help curb the sale of illegal firecrackers, noting that transactions outside the designated zones would be considered unauthorized. “Centralized selling areas allow us to strictly inspect vendors and products. It will be easier for us to determine which firecrackers are legal and which are illegal. Once there is a designated firecracker zone, any sale outside that area will be considered unauthorized. Outside the zone, selling is prohibited,” he said. The PNP also urged the public to cooperate with authorities and observe safety guidelines to help ensure a peaceful and injury-free New Year celebration. Nartatez had called on LGUs to establish designated firecracker zones as part of broader measures to enhance public safety amid increased firecracker use during the holiday season.