SAYING there were already 19 firecracker-related blazes reported even before the New Year's revelry, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) said on Friday that illegal manufacturing and selling have remained the prime concern of the authorities, as they are the main contributor of fire that results in severe injuries and fatalities.

Supt. Analee Atienza, BFP spokesman, said they did not have problem with legitimate fireworks manufacturers and sellers, as these were registered with the local government units (LGUs) as well as law enforcement agencies, including the bureau.