Firecracker ban in 3 areas of Makati still in effect

Light a firecracker in three barangays in Makati City and you will be penalized, warns Mayor Abby Binay. —INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

With just days to go before New Year’s Eve, Makati Mayor Abby Binay reminded residents of Barangays Bangkal, Pio del Pilar and Magallanes to strictly comply with the city ordinance imposing a firecracker ban in their areas.

The ban was enforced in 2010 following the discovery of an oil leak at the West Tower condominium basement in Barangay Bangkal.

It was later traced to grain-sized holes in a portion of the pipeline operated by First Philippine Industrial Corp., located just meters away from the building.

“We want a safe, injury-free celebration as we usher in the New Year. I urge Makatizens to do away with dangerous noisemakers and opt for safer alternatives, such as horns and trumpets, especially for young children,” Binay said in a statement.

She also directed all barangay captains to enforce a 1994 ordinance prohibiting the sale of any kind of firecracker to those aged 15 and below.

“While a policy on the citywide ban on the sale of firecrackers is being drawn up, our barangay leaders should see to it that sari-sari (retail) stores and other business establishments in their respective areas of jurisdiction are strictly complying with the existing ordinance banning the sale of firecrackers to minors,” Binay said.

Violators will face penalties while negligent barangay officials will also be sanctioned, she warned.

The 2010 ordinance prohibits the sale, manufacture, storage, possession or use of all types of firecrackers or pyrotechnic devices and other explosive materials in the three barangays.

The ban will remain in effect until lifted by the city council upon the endorsement of a duly authorized government agency.