Duterte EO on firecrackers still stands — Imee

The Executive Order issued by former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017 which strictly regulates the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics still stands, Senator Imee Marcos said Wednesday.

In a statement, Marcos thumbed down the Department of the Interior and Local Government's call for a total ban on firecrackers as Duterte's Executive Order 28 is still effective.

"PRRD already banned firecrackers back in 2017 through EO 28 Series of 2017. It is a matter of implementing the EO," she said.

"Under the Administrative Code, Executive Orders are acts of the President providing for rules of a general or permanent character in implementation or execution of constitutional or statutory powers," she added.

She continued: "So until there is another order from the Executive that supersedes EO 28-2017, the administration has to implement it."

Abalos earlier called for a total ban on firecrackers across the country to prevent fireworks-related injuries, which are common during Yuletide season and New Year revelry.

Marcos shared the same views on fireworks that pose danger, particularly to children.

"There is good wisdom behind the EO. Misuse of firecrackers can quickly turn a celebration into a medical emergency or even a tragedy," she said.

"Let us welcome the new year with our fingers, limbs, and lives intact," she added.

Based on DILG data, there were at least 1,210 LGUs that already have ordinances banning the use of harmful firecrackers in their respective localities.

Abalos said to attain their target of safe and injury-free festivities, LGUs must see to it that the provisions of the said ordinances are implemented down to the grassroots level.