SUPPLIES of popular firecrackers such as sawa, kwitis, and lucis are running low in Bocaue days before New Year’s Eve due to strong demand and production delays caused by recent typhoons.

Vendors in the country’s Fireworks Capital reported faster sellouts as fewer manufacturers were able to operate this year. 

Long lines of buyers were seen at the market, with customers purchasing in various quantities to continue year-end traditions. 

To accommodate customers who cannot travel, some vendors now offer reservations and deliveries.

The Bureau of Fire Protection warned against unsafe transport of firecrackers. 

“Hindi natin masabi kung may mga pasahero tayo doon o di kaya mismo ang driver ay nagyoyosi habang nagda-drive… Baka magkaroon ng contact sa ember ng cigarette buds kaya isang panganib po yan na puwedeng mag-trigger ng ignition,” said BFP spokesperson Anthony Arroyo.

While discouraging courier delivery, the BFP stressed that only legal firecrackers should be sold and transported. 

Vendors reported price increases of up to 20% since the start of December. 

Firecracker stalls in Bocaue remain open 24 hours until New Year’s Eve, with priority now given to walk-in buyers.