The Metro Manila Council (MMC) is urging residents to find a comfortable spot, relax, and enjoy organized fireworks displays this New Year’s Eve. In an effort to prioritize safety and enhance the overall enjoyment of the festivities, the MMC is encouraging the public to avoid using firecrackers in their homes and instead participate in community fireworks displays organized by their local government units.
To ensure a safe and memorable celebration, several cities in the National Capital Region have implemented a ban on the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices. These cities, including San Juan, Manila, Marikina, Makati, Taguig, and Quezon City, have planned communal fireworks displays and other year-end programs for residents to enjoy.
However, in Caloocan City, the government has designated specific firecracker zones where residents will be allowed to use firecrackers. This approach aims to strike a balance between safety and the traditional enjoyment of firecrackers during the New Year’s celebration.
In line with these efforts, the local governments of Quezon City and Manila have reiterated their call for residents to strictly observe the stipulations of Republic Act No. 7183. This act regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices during New Year’s celebrations.
To enforce these regulations and ensure the safety of residents, the Quezon City Police District has designated specific areas where firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices will be permitted. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has also ordered law enforcement agencies to strictly implement the firecracker ban in the city. Instead of individual fireworks displays, the city is organizing a grand concert and community fireworks display at the Quezon City Memorial Circle (QCMC) to provide a safer way for residents to welcome the New Year.
In both Quezon City and Manila, households are prohibited from holding fireworks displays and using firecrackers without authorization from the Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS). This measure aims to prevent accidents and minimize the potential harm caused by fireworks. Firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices permitted by law will only be sold in shopping malls that have obtained clearance from the DPOS and a special permit from the Business Permits and Licensing Department (BPLD).
Manila Mayor Maria Sheila “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan has also taken steps to ensure a safe celebration. She recently signed Executive Order No. 36, which states that fireworks will only be allowed in permitted staging areas. This regulation aims to centralize and control the use of fireworks, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
In light of recent fireworks-related injuries (FWRI), the Department of Health (DoH) has been providing updates on FWRI cases nationwide. As of December 21, the DoH has recorded a total of 107 FWRI cases. The data consistently shows that fireworks-related injuries predominantly occur at home or nearby, involving mostly young boys but also affecting passive onlookers of any age or sex. To minimize the risk of injuries, the DoH advises watching community fireworks displays from a safe distance. They emphasize the importance of parental supervision and the role of community leaders in promoting safety during the celebrations.
As we approach the New Year, let us prioritize the safety and enjoyment of all residents in Metro Manila. By participating in organized fireworks displays and adhering to the regulations set by local government units, we can ensure a spectacular and incident-free celebration. Let’s welcome the New Year with joy and excitement, while also keeping the well-being of our communities in mind.
Source: The Manila Times
