Palace asks Pinoys: Avoid using ‘dangerous’ firecrackers

Malacañang on Sunday urged Filipinos to avoid using firecrackers during the New Year's festivities.

"Tuwing sasapit ang Bagong Taon ay nag-aapela tayo sa ating mga kababayan na iwasan at kung pwede ay tuluyan nang huwag gumamit ng mga mapanganib na paputok ," Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. told a press briefing aired over state-run dzRB.

"Magpatugtog na lamang o mag-ingay sa ibang mga paraan na totally safe at hindi na po tayo mailalagay sa panganib ng kalusugan at maging sa buhay," he said.

The Department of Health has challenged adults to show good deeds to children by not lighting up firecrackers and instead look for safer ways to celebrate the Holiday season.

DOH data showed that from Dec. 21, 2013 to Jan. 5, 2014, there were 1,018 fireworks-related injuries recorded, nine percent higher compared incidents for Dec. 2012 to Jan. 2013.

On the other hand, the Quezon City local government is regulating the sale of fireworks in streets and temporary vending areas by requiring retailers to apply and pay for Hawkers' Permits from the Market Development and Administration Department.  — Kathryn Mae P. Tubadeza