With the New Year just around the corner, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Thursday warned the public against using firecrackers as he also extended help to fire victims in Sta. Ana, Manila.

The senator reminded the public that using firecrackers in residential areas is prohibited, recalling the Executive Order No. 28 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017 which limits the use of firecrackers to community fireworks display.

Go added that the activity must be a part of an event and must have a license from the municipal or city government. It must also be conducted under the supervision of a licensed person.

Asked about the possibility of a total ban of firecrackers, the President’s former top aide said that he prefers a law that regulates use.

His statement comes as he distributed cash and relief assistance to 51 families that used to live in the 35 houses that were burned to the ground on Christmas Day. Reports said that the fire started at noontime in a residence at 1858 Estrada Ext., Oro-B Street.

The senator also offered to pay for the school supplies and uniforms of the affected children and fare for those who want to relocate outside Metro Manila.

For residents who need to undergo an operation, Go offered to take them to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and advised them to ask for help from the Malasakit Center, a one-stop shop for medical and financial assistance from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

The fire victims also received additional assistance from the DSWD, National Housing Authority (NHA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP).