Group calls for laws vs improper use, disposal of firecrackers amid fatal Tondo blast

Zero-waste advocates called for legislation on the regulation and proper disposal of firecrackers in the country following the recent death of a 12-year old boy due to a firecracker blast in Tondo, Manila.

In a statement Tuesday, the EcoWaste Coalition expressed its condolences to the family of the deceased blast victim as it called  the incident a learning opportunity on the dangers of firecrackers.

“No child should ever be injured, maimed, or killed due to celebratory firecrackers and fireworks.  No one should ever deprive a child of the potential to grow and develop.  No family should suffer from the consequences of illegal production, sale, use, and disposal of lethal firecrackers and fireworks,” said EcoWaste Coalition National Director Aileen Lucero.

The group urged lawmakers to enact legislative measures to combat the improper use and disposal of fireworks following the incident.

They added that said law must implement steep fines and penalties to prevent further incidents like the Tondo incident.

“His death should not be in vain… We trust his death will inspire positive change in the way firecracker laws and regulations are enforced and in the manner by which our people usher in the New Year,” Lucero said.

“We call upon the national and local authorities to step up their respective efforts to protect our children, our homes, and communities from the lethal and toxic harms of firecrackers and fireworks as the New Year countdown approaches,” she added.

The Tondo blast occurred on Sunday night after two 12-year-old boys lit defective firecrackers on a sidewalk.

The explosion caused serious  injuries for both victims, with one being declared dead at the scene.

The Manila Police District said that they already have declared persons of interest and are looking into possible criminal charges that may be filed in relation to the incident.

Earlier, Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa also expressed support for legislations that would implement regulation or bans on firecracker use in the country, especially for children. — Jiselle Anne C. Casucian/RF, GMA Integrated News