ROMAN CANDLE. A family from Davao who was in Cebu for New Year's some years back was thrilled to finally be able to use firecrackers (which are banned in Davao) to celebrate. They lit one of the firecrackers then took off running, expecting a loud boom. They later found out to their chagrin that Roman Candles only spewed out sparks and do not go out with a bang.
SADDER CHRISTMAS? An Ear source reported overhearing two men talking about Christmas. The first man told his friend he observed the Christmas celebration this year was more austere, with fewer parties and even fewer fireworks shows. But the second said it was just because most of the money intended for parties was donated to typhoon Yolanda victims while people now prefer to buy food, gifts and necessities rather than buy firecrackers.