Set up firecracker zones, Metro LGUs urged

MANILA, Philippines — Local government units (LGU) in Metro Manila have been asked to designate areas where residents can hold fireworks displays during the New Year’s Eve revelry.

In a recent meeting with Metro Manila mayors, officials of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority discussed the need to implement MMDA Resolution 22-22 Series of 2022, designating firecracker zones in relation to Republic Act 7183.

According to acting MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, LGUs can designate common areas for the use of firecrackers, fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices.

“Setting up firecracker zones can prevent or lessen fireworks-related injuries,” Artes said in a statement.

He also called on the public to properly dispose garbage, particularly used and unused firecrackers.

The Department of Health also urged LGUs to follow the DOH’s “Ligtas Christmas sa Healthy Pilipinas” advocacy and avoid the use of firecrackers in welcoming the New Year.

The Quezon City government had announced that it would hold a countdown to 2024 at the Quezon Memorial Circle.

The Manila city government identified fireworks allowed to be used in welcoming the New Year.Some of these are sparklers, luces, Roman candle, trompillo and kwitis, which can be used in designated fireworks zones.

The local government of Taguig has designated several areas in the city as firecracker zones to ensure a safe New Year’s Eve celebration.

The order was in compliance with City Ordinance No. 87 series of 2018, prohibiting the sale and distribution of any firecracker, pyrotechnic device or other similar devices outside the designated fireworks zones.

In the city’s first district, there are specific areas designated for fireworks displays in Barangays Palingon, Bambang, Wawa, San Miguel, Lower Bicutan, Bagumbayan, Hagonoy, Napindan and Tuktukan.

There are no designated firecracker zones in Barangays Ligid-Tipas, New Lower Bicutan, Sta. Ana, Ususan, Ibayo Tipas and Calzada.

The designated firecracker zones in the second district are located in Baranagay South Daang Hari, Central Bicutan, Upper Bicutan, Fort Bonifacio, Katuparan and Central Signal.

There are also no designated firecracker zones in Barangay North