PBBM asks LGUs: Have common fireworks display areas to lessen firecracker injuries

By Katrina Gracia Consebido

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday, Dec. 22, urged local government units (LGUs) to designate a safe area for New Year’s fireworks activities to reduce firecracker-related injuries.

“Ang gawin lang natin ay – I will enjoin the LGUs, instead of allowing our people to have their own firecrackers, gumawa na lang kayo ng magandang fireworks display para sa inyong mga constituent,” Marcos said.

Marcos also advised the public about firecracker dangers, especially those related with reckless and indiscriminate use of firecrackers. 

“Huwag muna tayong magpaputok at alam naman natin kung minsan delikado ‘yan. Lalo ngayon at maglalabas sila ng mga paputok na hindi natin alam kung saan galing, kung maayos ang pagkagawa,” he added.

The Department of Health (DOH) recently noted a decline in firecracker-related injuries.

Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, DOH officer-in-charge, said 122 cases were reported in 2020 and 128 in 2021.

The Philippine National Police has already intensified patrolling efforts, as well as the confiscation and destruction of banned firecrackers. -ag