Palace lauds DOH for lower firecracker injuries
January 2, 2017 | 5:58pm
The Department of Health is hopeful that the executive order banning the individual use of firecrackers and encouraging community fireworks display will be implemented next year.
AP / Bullit Marquez, File
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Monday lauded the Health department for the lower number of firecracker-related injuries this year and the police for what it described as “generally peaceful” celebration of the holidays.
“We congratulate the Department of Health (DOH) for its very successful Iwas Paputok campaign and the Philippine National Police (PNP), together with the local executives, for a ‘generally peaceful’ celebration of Christmas and New Year,” Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a statement.
Andanar also assured the public that President Rodrigo Duterte would take into account the “greater good” when he decides on the proposal to ban the use of firecrackers during New Year.
“We have yet to see a signed EO (executive order) for the firecracker ban,” Andanar said.
“Although we are very much aware that the President is a strong advocate of the total firecrackers ban, there are industries and laborers also that would be affected by this move. The President weighs and considers the welfare that would be for the greater good of all,” he added.
The DOH has drafted an EO banning the individual use of firecrackers and encouraging community fireworks display. The policy was opposed by groups who are worried about its impact on livelihood and jobs, especially in areas where firecrackers are manufactured.
Last week, DOH Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo said a law would be a “better tool” to ensure less firecracker-related injuries and damage during New Year.
Health officials are hopeful that the EO or the law banning firecrackers would be implemented by next year.
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