‘Torotot’ with air pump a hit in Divisoria

After the government discouraged the use of “torotot” or horns among noise makers used to welcome the new year due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, sellers in Divisoria observed an increase in the sales of torotot that come with air pumps.

According to Marisol Abdurahman’s “24 Oras” report on Monday, the horns with pumps sell for P70 each.

“Itong de-bomba ang mabili,” one vendor said.

The Department of Health earlier discouraged the public from using horns during New Year’s celebrations to avoid the spread of droplets that might lead to COVID-19 transmission.

A vendor said the sales of traditional torotot have dropped after the advisory was announced.

“Baka matirahan kami nitong New Year, hindi namin maubos kasi walang bumibili,” he said.

“Takot ‘yung mga tao sa announcement ng gobyerno. Kasi pinagbabawal daw kasi baka ‘yung talsik ng laway ng tao, mahawaan nila ng virus. ‘Yun ang iniingatan ng mga tao, kaya medyo lugi kami dito.” -- Julia Mari Ornedo/BAP, GMA News