A local group of fireworks manufacturers said prices of their products this year have dropped considerably compared with the last two years as the cost of raw materials stabilized.
“Prices are about 10 percent to 30 percent cheaper depending on the kind of fireworks. I highly suggest that consumers try to see for themselves how much lower prices this year are compared to the previous years,” Philippine Fireworks Association (PFA) president Joven Ong told the Inquirer.
READ: Buying fireworks for holiday celebrations? Be cautious, says DTI
Despite this, Ong said that the prices of these pyrotechnics may still rise by 10 percent by December due to the seasonal surge in demand, hinting that it would be a good idea for the public to make their purchases as early as possible.
Back in 2022, the PFA official said that the prices of imported materials—most of which were from China—had gone up, with some seeing a twofold increase.
He also pointed to delays in the shipment of these raw materials, as well as the high fuel prices that had driven up logistics costs in delivery and shipping.
Going for safer products
In 2023, Ong said that a lot of buyers shifted toward safer pyrotechnics or pailaw instead of firecrackers or paputok.
He said examples of these were aerial pyrotechnic devices, as well as classics like fountains and sparklers.
The government, through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), issues yearly reminders to the public to be mindful of the fireworks and firecrackers that they are buying.
The DTI has a list of certified manufacturers on their website, featuring at least 15 manufacturers authorized to sell these products. These are 4Sure Fireworks, A. Santiago Fireworks, Andy’s Fireworks, Double L, Dragon Fireworks, Diamond, LF Fireworks, LLF, Maribel Sta. Ana Fireworks, Nation, Pegasus, Phoenix, Star Light, Yangco Fireworks and JPL Fireworks. —Alden M. Monzon INQ