Duterte mulls total ban on firecrackers in 2021

Fireworks might be totally banned in the Philippines by the holiday season next year, President Rodrigo Duterte announced Monday.

In his weekly address, Duterte said he is planning to issue a document ordering the ban by mid-2021.

“Baka next December, ibawal ko na ang putok . . . for reasons of public safety . . . because it is really a dangerous thing,” he said.

Citing his hometown of Davao City as an example, Duterte said the holidays can be celebrated safely.

“Sa amin, maganda man New Year, Pasko. We celebrate it with the family may music, lahat na. Gaiety and all, Walang nagsusugatan, walang namamatay,” he said.

The Metro Manila Council earlier said it would regulate fireworks displays to prevent crowding amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

The government has also thumbed down Christmas parties, especially those involving the congregation of people from different households. 

Duterte urged the public to observe health protocols over the holidays, stressing that this may be the only year in their lifetimes where festivities will be regulated. —LDF, GMA News