MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has signed an executive order regulating the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in the country.
Executive Order 28, signed on June 20, confines the use of pyrotechnics to community fireworks displays to lessen the risk of injuries.
Community fireworks display should be conducted on the occasion or as part of a celebration, competition or similar event held in a venue outside residential areas. Community fireworks displays can only be done under the supervision of a trained person licensed by the Philippine National Police.
"It is allowed by the municipality/city concerned through a permit specifying the date and time of the fireworks display and the specific area in which the display will be conducted, in conformity with national standards, rules and regulations," the order read.
Other pyrotechnic devices may be used outside community fireworks displays but must be subject to existing laws and regulations.
The president tasked the director general of the PNP to define and disseminate information for what constitutes prohibited firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.
The PNP, Department of Health, Department of Education, Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and local government units will be in charge of conducting information campaigns on the danger of using fireworks.
In his order, Duterte noted that firecrackers have been part of Filipino tradition to celebrate events.
The number of firecracker-related injuries and casualties recorded every year pushed the president to promulgate stricter national standards.
EO 28 shall take effect immediately.
Duterte had imposed a firecracker ban in Davao City during his term as mayor in his hometown. Last year, the president said that he is seriously considering implementing a nationwide firecracker ban.
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