(SPOT.ph) 2019 is officially coming to a close—which means it's time for the annual pyrotechnics show that happens on New Year's Eve. But with great fun usually comes consequences, too. The Department of Health has reported 54 firecracker-related injuries from December 21 to December 30 and with New Year's Eve approaching, that number is, unfortunately, expected to rise.
Several Metro Manila cities have issued reminders for the New Year's Eve festivities. Certain fireworks are banned for public use—with piccolo, cited by the Department of Health (DOH) as a leading cause of injuries, at the top of the list—while smaller firecrackers are allowed in a few areas, depending on the ruling of your local government.Â
This ban is in line with Executive Order No. 28, signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte in 2017. The order mandates stricter regulations on the use of pyrotechnics, confining the shows to "community displays" led by a trained person licensed by the Philippine National Police. These "community displays" are usually led by local government units to steer people away from lighting their own fireworks.
Makati City
In Makati City, two ordinances have been put in place regarding fireworks: City Ordinance No. 2010-A-020 bans firecrackers "and other explosive devices" in Barangays Bangkal, Pio del Pilar and Magallanes, while City Ordinance No. 1994-290 bans the selling of firecrackers to kids aged 15 years and below.Â
Muntinlupa CityÂ
Aside from the ban on fireworks, Muntinlupa administration has also reminded residents of the ban against open pipe mufflers on vehicles, or any other kind of modifications.Â
Quezon City
Certain fireworks have been allowed by the Quezon City government: mabuhay, roman candle, trompillo, whistle device, butterfly, fountain, jumbo regular, luces, pailaw, and similar devices. These firecrackers are only allowed in 180 zones around the city to be manned by Barangay officials.Â
Main image by Jingda Chen/Unsplash.
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