Keep your fingers, use alternative means to make noise this New Year's Eve

A person is a person even if he or she has lost a finger, but it makes no sense to do something that might result in that loss — especially if it's illegal. President Rodrigo Duterte has signed Executive Order No. 28, which designates specific areas for community fireworks display.

Chemical safety campaigner Thony Dizon from advocacy group EcoWaste Coailition welcomes the EO, but he remains hopeful that a total ban will be implemented in the future.

"Maganda ang ginawa ng ating pamahalaan at mayroon na tayo ngayong panuntunan o gabay para mas maging epektibo ang pagbabawal ng mga paputok lalo na sa mga bata, dahil sila ang pangunahing apektado sa paputok na ito," Dizon said in interview with Unang Hirit on Thursday.

Fireworks and firecrackers are the same for the group, as these are made with the same "heavy metals and particulate matters" that also contribute to air pollution.

Instead of firecrackers or fireworks, Dizon said banging pots or using cans with stones in them are safer ways to ring in the new year.

Noise pollution on this occasion not only affects humans, but animals as well. Dizon advised pet owners to make sure that their furry friends are fed before the clock strikes midnight and they're in a place where the loud sounds won't hurt their sensitive ears. — AT/LA, GMA News