DAVAO CITY — A 27-year-old man may spend the New Year behind bars after he was arrested in an entrapment operation for selling firecrackers at the Toril Public Market on Monday afternoon, December 29 — a clear violation of Davao City’s long-standing firecracker ban.
Police identified the suspect only by his alias, “Salman,” a resident of Lao Street, Poblacion Toril. Various firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices were seized from his possession during the operation led by personnel of Toril Police Station 8.
Toril Police chief PMaj. Sheryl Bautista emphasized the city’s unwavering commitment to enforcing its strict prohibition on firecrackers and fireworks.
“We strongly remind everyone that the use, sale, and possession of illegal firecrackers are prohibited and we will continue to strictly enforce the law. Davao City is a No-Firecracker Zone pursuant to City Ordinance 060-02, so everybody is prohibited to use, possess, or sell any firecrackers or pyrotechnic devices while in the city,” Bautista stressed.
“Let us work together to ensure a safe, peaceful, and injury-free celebration for our families and community.”
City Ordinance No. 060-02 — the Firecracker Ban — was enacted in 2002 and has since been credited for significantly reducing firecracker-related injuries and fire incidents during holiday festivities in the city. The ordinance is one of the strictest local policies in the country concerning firecracker control.
Police said charges against “Salman” will be filed before the City Prosecutor’s Office on January 3, 2026 due to the ongoing long holiday break — effectively placing him in police detention as the New Year celebrations unfold.
Authorities urged the public to celebrate the season safely by adhering to the city’s regulations and avoiding any form of pyrotechnics.
The Davao City Police Office vowed continued operations and heightened visibility to ensure residents welcome the New Year in a safe, quiet, and injury-free environment.