Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla issued anew a reminder to local executives that firecrackers remain banned despite a more relaxed approach by law enforcers on merchants.
Remulla urged local government units (LGUs) to enforce the rules and regulations on firecrackers and other pyrotechnics in their jurisdictions to prevent firecracker-related injuries.
In a memorandum, Remulla called on LGUs to issue ordinances and regulations banning or discouraging individuals and households from using firecrackers as prescribed by Executive Order 28, series of 2017.
He said LGUs must restrict the use of firecrackers to community fireworks display areas that had secured permits and they must conduct information campaigns on the dangers of prohibited fireworks.
Designated revelry spots
Remulla instructed the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to ensure that fireworks exhibition zones followed the provisions of Republic Act 9514 or the Fire Code of the Philippines.
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) chief directed the Philippine National Police to inspect, confiscate and destroy illegal fireworks and pyrotechnic devices.
The public is discouraged from playing with illegal or otherwise hazardous fireworks but to use alternative noise-makers such as horns, pans, kettles and other common items.
As of 20 December, 32 pyrotechnic-related incidents have been recorded by the BFP with five casualties and 24 injuries.
The DILG also encouraged LGUs to enforce Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 to maintain cleanliness and orderliness in public places.