01/12/2025
PNP WARNS PUBLIC AGAINST ILLEGAL ONLINE FIRECRACKER SELLERS; TWO NABBED IN TONDO ENTRAPMENT
The Philippine National Police urges the public to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with illegal online sellers of firecrackers, following a successful entrapment operation that resulted in the arrest of two individuals in Tondo, Manila.
On November 26, 2025, at approximately 5:18 PM, operatives of the Manila District Anti-Cybercrime Team conducted a coordinated entrapment operation that led to the apprehension of two male suspects, known only by the aliases “Mon,” 22, and “Tom,” 21. The two were caught in the act of offering unauthorized firecrackers for sale through online platforms.
The confiscated items, all prohibited under existing regulations, were immediately secured as evidence. The suspects now face charges for violating Section 3 of Republic Act No. 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices. These violations are further linked to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, due to the use of online channels in conducting the illegal transactions.
Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN Nartatez emphasized the risk behind illegal online purchases, urging the public to prioritize safety as the holiday season approaches.
“We want to remind everyone: safety begins with responsible choices. Huwag po tayong bibili ng paputok mula sa mga ilegal na online sellers. These unregulated products can cause serious injuries and even put whole communities at risk. Our police units are actively monitoring online spaces to ensure that these dangerous trades are stopped,” the Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN Nartatez said.
He added that the PNP remains committed to enforcing the law both on the ground and in digital spaces.
“As the holidays draw near, we are intensifying both cyber and community-based operations to prevent firecracker-related incidents. We urge the public to cooperate and report suspicious online activities immediately.”
PNP Spokesperson and Chief, Public Information Office PBGEN Randulf T. Tuaño likewise issued a reminder, stressing the importance of purchasing only from licensed and authorized retailers.
“Marami pong naglalabasang online offers na mukhang mura at convenient, pero delikado at ilegal. Let’s not compromise our safety. The law is clear—only authorized sellers can distribute pyrotechnics. Anyone caught selling or buying illegal firecrackers online will face legal consequences,” PBGEN Tuaño said.
He added, “This operation in Tondo is a reminder that our cybercrime teams are alert and proactive. Ang pinakamahalaga po: iwasan natin ang aksidente at sunog. Buy only from legitimate sources or, better yet, consider safer alternatives for celebration.”
The PNP encourages the public to report illegal online sellers of firecrackers through the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group hotline, local police stations, or to Unified 911 hotline.
As part of the ongoing focus on public safety, especially during the festive season, the PNP affirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against illegal firecrackers and online criminal activities to safeguard Filipino families nationwide
