Fireworks ban in effect in parts of south Metro

TOXIC watch group EcoWaste Coalition warns buyers against charms that supposedly bring the owner good luck after these test positive for harmful chemicals like lead and arsenic. Alexis Corpuz

Some areas in the southern part of Metro Manila are hoping to usher in the New Year without a bang.

In Muntinlupa, the city government has imposed a ban on fireworks and firecrackers for the duration of the holiday season.

In Executive Order No. 15, Mayor Jaime Fresnedi banned the “display, sale, use and distribution of firecrackers” which are a traditional part of the celebration of Christmas and the New Year.

“We want to make this Christmas season safer and more meaningful for everyone. With firecrackers getting more powerful and dangerous every year, we want to ensure that Muntinlupeños will welcome the New Year in a healthy state,” Fresnedi said.

The total ban was recommended after last year’s New Year’s revelry left one dead and 18 injured due to fireworks, according to records from the city health office (CHO).

Fresnedi clarified that firework displays would be allowed in nonresidential areas but organizers need to get permits from the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine National Police. There should also be a licensed technician to supervise the fireworks and readily available first aid equipment.

“It would be better [if] instead of spending our hard-earned money on firecrackers, we can send it to help survivors of the ‘Yolanda’ disaster. Instead of wasting our finances, let’s contribute to helping our countrymen rebuild their lives,” Fresnedi added.

In Makati City, a fireworks ban is still in effect in three villages affected by the West Tower oil leak in July 2010.

“Although the cleaning phase of the oil leak has been ongoing for years now, the city government deems it proper to keep the ordinance in effect so that no further harm could befall our constituents,” Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. said.

The ban on fireworks continues to be enforced in the villages of Bangkal, Magallanes and Pio del Pilar.

“We have been in constant communication with our environmental specialists and consultants who will determine when the soil and water in the area have been freed from traces of oil,” he added.

Earlier, Binay also canceled the annual New Year’s countdown and fireworks display at the Ayala district to show the city’s solidarity with “Yolanda” survivors.

Meanwhile, the Southern Police District is also discouraging the use of fireworks for celebrating the coming of the New Year. Firecrackers have likewise been banned within the seven-hectare SPD headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

From Dec. 18 to 26, four firecracker-related injuries have been reported in the southern part of the metropolis, mostly in Pasay City. A lone victim of a stray bullet incident has also been reported in Taguig City.