By Eva C. Visperas

 

IN a country where the sound of firecrackers is synonymous with New Year’s celebrations, the town of Sto. Tomas in Pangasinan stands as a shining example of community safety and responsible governance, particularly when it comes to ensuring the well-being of its residents during the festive season.

Since 2013, Sto. Tomas has consistently enforced a firecracker ban, a move that has led to a remarkable achievement: zero firecracker-related injuries year after year.

This commitment to safety has not only set Sto. Tomas apart as a model for other towns in Pangasinan, but it has also earned the town the distinction of being one of the most peaceful areas in the province, with crime rates consistently low — sometimes even nearing zero.

Vice Mayor Dick Villar, who served three successive terms as mayor, confirmed to this writer that the firecracker ban remains in effect. From the time of his aunt, the late Mayor Vivien Villar, to Mayor Dick’s term and now under the leadership of his son, incumbent Mayor Dickerson Villar, this shining example of safety is being upheld.

“Yes, it’s still in effect,” Vice Mayor Dick confirmed in a text message on Friday. “The ban on firecrackers is in place, but fireworks displays are allowed, occasionally,” he added in a follow-up message.

He recalled that the ban started during his Aunt Vivien’s last term and was continued through his own first term as mayor. “People are aware of it, and every year an executive order is issued to support the policy,” he explained. “It’s a proactive step to protect the lives and well-being of our citizens,” he added.

The town’s police force and barangay officials remain vigilant to ensure strict compliance with the firecracker ban. Public awareness campaigns have also played a crucial role in educating residents about the dangers of firecrackers and the importance of celebrating the New Year without the associated risks.

In the past, I learned that locals who wanted to light firecrackers during New Year’s celebrations would often travel to nearby towns to avoid violating Sto. Tomas’ strict firecracker rules.

The success of Sto. Tomas in reducing firecracker-related accidents and injuries is a testament to the power of local governance in addressing public health and safety concerns. It shows that when the welfare of the people is prioritized over tradition, positive outcomes follow.

This year, the town of Bolinao has taken a page from Sto. Tomas’ playbook and implemented its own firecracker ban.

The move by Bolinao is an encouraging sign that more localities are beginning to recognize the need for stricter regulations regarding firecrackers. While the shift away from fireworks may initially be met with resistance from those who view firecrackers as a traditional way to usher in the New Year, the long-term benefits — fewer injuries, reduced air and noise pollution, and a more peaceful holiday season — are undeniable.

Sto. Tomas and Bolinao’s successful implementation of firecracker bans offers a compelling argument for other towns and cities across the Philippines to adopt similar measures. In a country where firecracker-related accidents have become all too common, the consistent success of these bans serves as a blueprint for how communities can prioritize the safety of their residents without compromising the spirit of celebration.

Personally, I am a strong supporter of the firecracker ban. Aside from its positive impact on my own health and well-being, it is also beneficial to my five dogs, who become frightened and cry when they hear the sound of fireworks. They are terrified.

Additionally, the ban contributes to improved air quality, reduced waste, and a decrease in the environmental impact of fireworks.

If Sto. Tomas and Bolinao can do it, why can’t other cities and towns follow suit?

There’s no doubt that this move can be replicated in other communities if their local officials prioritize public health, safety, and the well-being of residents over tradition and business interests.

It is time for more localities to make firecracker bans a part of their New Year’s traditions, ensuring that the festive spirit of the season remains unmarred by preventable accidents.

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