Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has urged residents to ditch the firecrackers and join the city's official New Year's Eve countdown bash at Quezon Memorial Circle, promising a "safe and spectacular" way to ring in the new year.
Amidst preparations for the festive event, Belmonte reiterated the city's strict firecracker ban, enacted to ensure the safety of residents and minimize fire-related incidents.
Fireworks displays are only permitted in designated public spaces authorized by the city government, as outlined in Executive Order 54, S-2022.
The grand countdown at QMC features a lineup of renowned artists, including headliner Vice Ganda.
Popular bands like Mayonnaise, The Dawn, and Cueshe, along with drag queens and talented dancers, will add to the festive atmosphere. Allan K, Tuesday Vargas, Boobay, Tekla, and Uma will host the event.
"I invite everyone to join us in this special New Year's celebration," Belmonte said. "We want to ensure a safe and joyous start to the new year for everyone."
A dazzling fireworks display will illuminate the sky at midnight, marking the arrival of 2024. Motorists are advised to expect traffic congestion around Elliptical Road due to the event.
City personnel will be deployed to manage traffic flow and assist attendees.
Meanwhile, in Manila, Mayor Honey Lacuna issued Executive Order 26 reiterating the city's firecracker ban, except in designated areas granted special permits by the Bureau of Permits.
Specific pyrotechnic devices permitted for community displays have been communicated to barangays and through social media channels.
Permit applicants for authorized fireworks displays must adhere to stringent safety guidelines, including standby firetrucks, security personnel and medical teams.
Lacuna emphasized the penalties for violating the firecracker ban, citing public safety concerns and a recent rise in pre-New Year firecracker-related injuries.
The executive order aims to protect both property and individuals as the nation ushers in 2024.
