President bats for total firecracker ban

After limiting the use of firecrackers to community displays, President Duterte is now pushing for a total ban on firecrackers in the country.

The President said he would soon sign an executive order prohibiting the use of firecrackers in a bid to put an end to New Year's Eve-

related injuries.

“I will issue the executive order at this early para warning na doon sa lahat that I am banning firecracker altogether,” Duterte said during the turnover of housing units to wounded soldiers and cops in Bulacan.

Duterte said he would ask the justice department to review thoroughly the proposed firecracker ban before signing the order.

“Bakit ako papayag na noon 700 dead, tapos maski isang bata na mawalan ng kamay? So as a president, why would I allow it?” he said.

“Sarahan natin 'yan. That's the last chapter 'yung firecrackers (We will close them). Do not believe in paalisin mo ang demonyo (do not believe that they would drive away the devil or evil spirits),” he added.

In 2017, President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 28 restricting citizens from using firecrackers at home. Only community firework displays have been permitted in designated places under police supervision to minimize the risk of injuries and casualties.

This time, however, the President wants all firecrackers banned.

“Wala 'yan sa gobyerno because sabihin ng mga g*** na ‘kita mo ang gobyerno na ito ulol. Kung sila ang magpa-fireworkers, pwede tapos tayo hindi.' Ganyan ang Pilipino. O 'di wala,” he said.

“Kagaya sa Davao, tahimik parang Biyernes Santo (Just like in Davao, it’s quiet like Good Friday),” said the former mayor of Davao City.