LGUs told: Regulate use of firecrackers

Local officials are ordered to strictly observe the provisions of Executive Order 28, a firecracker-related policy that aims to reduce the risks of injuries.

Atty. Rene Burdeos, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)7 director, said since the EO was only signed by President Rodrigo Duterte this year, local officials, from governors down to the barangay level, should initiate information drive so as to educate the people on the dangers of using firecrackers.

The EO regulates the sale and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics. It also specifies that LGUs must designate an area where the use of firecrackers will be allowed.

If local officials refuse to comply with the order, Burdeos said it is “tantamount to dereliction of duty” and these inept leaders shall be dealt with accordingly.

Meanwhile, Cebu City Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella requested the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) to strictly enforce existing laws that prohibits indiscriminate firing during the New Year celebration.

“In the celebration of the New Year, Filipinos are known to hold festivities with the use of firecrackers and other sound-making instruments. However, there are still others who illegally discharge their respective firearms, posing danger to the revelers and families within the vicinity of city,” the letter addressed to CCPO director Senior Supt. Joel Doria stated.

Labella also requested the cops to strictly investigate and apprehend violators of Article 155 of the Revised Penal Code known as Alarms and Scandal and Republic Act No. 10591 or Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

Another letter was also addressed to Maj. Gen. Paul Atal, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Central Command, requesting his office to closely coordinate with the Philippine National Police in the enforcement of the said laws.

“There should be a strict enforcement of the firing of guns during the holiday season particularly during the New Year’s Eve. There should be severe penalties imposed upon those who fire their guns,” Labella said in his press conference.