Caloocan LGU urges: Set up fireworks zones

The local government of Caloocan City on Friday called on all barangays to designate specific areas for fireworks displays to ensure public safety during the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

This comes as Caloocan Mayor Along Malapitan issued Executive Order 040-24 which requires barangays to inform the local government of the details of the designated fireworks zones, including the address, date and time of the display, as well as the safety and security protocols that will be in place.

He added that the information must be submitted to the Office of the City Administrator three days prior to the scheduled use of the display area.

Malapitan also reminded residents that loud fireworks such as baby rockets, trianggulo, whistle bombs, El Diablo, Judas’ belt, boga and others are prohibited.

“Let us use safe alternative methods such as noisemakers, pots and pans, speakers, light-emitting devices and others to celebrate the New Year,” said Malapitan in a statement.

The local government has tasked the Caloocan City Police Station, the Bureau of Fire Protection-Caloocan, and the City Health Department to enforce the ordinance.

Dr. Fernando Santos of the Caloocan City Medical Center said that they have logged 5 firecracker-related injuries as of Thursday.

In Navotas City, a total firecracker and fireworks ban is being implemented which is linked to Executive Order No. TMT-060 saying that usage and selling of fireworks and firecrackers are prohibited.

At Malabon City, the local police disclosed that they haven’t reported any cases of stray bullet incidents and firecracker-related injuries.

The Bureau of Fire Protection in Malabon also conducted an information drive where they distributed leaflets containing information about the risks of firecrackers and how to welcome the new year without fireworks.

Over at Valenzuela City, Mayor Weslie Gatchalian signed an executive order establishing different firecrackers and pyrotechnic display zones within the city.

The order also aims to regulate the usage of firecrackers in the city by prohibiting the sale, manufacture, and distribution throughout the city.