Not all Metro Manila LGUs imposing total firecracker ban

While some local government units in Metro Manila have agreed to prohibit all kinds of firecrackers this holiday season, some said they will instead regulate it.

According to Rida Reyes’ report on “24 Oras” on Friday, the cities of Valenzuela, Marikina, Navotas, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Quezon City have already passed ordinances banning firecrackers in their localities.

However in Mandaluyong City, firecracker use will only be regulated.

In San Juan, fireworks displays will also be banned this year.

“Kahit po sinasabi ng executive order na puwede ang mga pailaw, kung mayroon pong ordinansa ang inyong lungsod o mayroon po ang inyong munisipyo, mas maganda pong tumalima tayo kasi mayroon pong mga penalties ‘yan kung sakaling mahuli kayo,” Interior Undersecretary and spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said.

Earlier, National Capital Region Police Office chief Police Brigadier General Vicente Danao said Metro Manila mayors have passed a resolution that orders the ban on firecrackers.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Debold Sinas said he has yet to receive the resolution from the mayors.

Duterte earlier said fireworks might be totally banned in the country by the holiday season next year.

Moreover, fireworks manufacturers have appealed to not ban fireworks as these are not as dangerous as some firecrackers.

“Bakit pati ‘yong consumer na pailaw, naisama? Hindi ba puwedeng pagbigyan ‘yong mga tao na magsaya sa kanilang mga bahay lang? ‘Wag naman ipagbawal, anong gagawin namin sa mga stock na naiwan lalo na nagkaroon ng confusion whether puwede ba or hindi puwede?” Joven Ong of the Philippine Fireworks Association said.

If fireworks will be totally banned in the country, Ong urged the government to at least allow them to manufacture for export as many workers will lose their livelihood.—Ma. Angelica Garcia/LDF, GMA News