Bataoil seeks new IRR for firecracker ban
LINGAYEN—The technical working group (TWG) in the House of Representatives raised major concerns for the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) that will be drafted for the nationwide firecracker ban in the country per of Executive Order No. 28.
Second District Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil, TWG chairman, told the first firecrackers summit last June 27 at Camp Crame that conformity with the international safety standards in the manufacture of fireworks should be clearly established, implemented and monitored to protect lives and properties, as well as damage to property.
Other concerns he aired were: 1. Establishment of “one store, one permit” policy by PNP for more effective monitoring. 2. Promulgation of safety measures in various manufacturing stages by Department of Labor and Employment to minimize occupational hazards.
- Stricter controls over importation of firecrackers and fireworks by the Bureau of Customs to curb the unabated smuggling of illegal firecrackers. 4. Adoption of policy that no fireworks and pyrotechnic devices can be sold to any person below 18 years of age.
“The data is consistent in that half of the victims of firecrackers are minors, and that the cause of their injury is the deadly piccolo, which is being sold openly in the streets,” he said.
Bataoil said the issuance of E.O. No. 28 acknowledges that banning fireworks is not the solution, and that lighting fireworks is a significant part of Filipino culture and tradition.
“Most Filipinos will find it difficult to imagine celebrating New Year’s Eve, festivals and parades without the sounds and lights of a fireworks display,” he said.
He said a pyrotechnic show normally enhances the culmination of town fiestas, concerts, weddings, and birthdays.
More importantly, EO No. 28 affirms that the fireworks industry provides livelihood to communities that traditionally manufacture these and at the same time can be developed further to contribute to the tourism.
Bataoil said PNP, as lead implementing agency, should already establish what constitutes prohibited firecrackers and establish areas where community fireworks display may be conducted. (Tita Roces)
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
