MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / Jan. 2, 2013) – Filipino senators are set to hold a public consultation to see if there is a need to review ordinances on the use of fireworks following reports of injuries sustained by civilians during the New Year’s revelry, state media reported on Wednesday.
It said Sen. Gregorio Honasan, chairman of the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs, is looking into proposed measures regulating firecrackers filed by Senators Manny Villar and Miriam Santiago.
”I am really planning to conduct a hearing. What our committee will do is to review the ordinances, including (those passed by) the local governments, or even banning fireworks and then consolidate (the ordinances). The DOH (Department of Health) wants to designate public places for fireworks and display but if you look at history, it originated in China where firecrackers are banned on the road,” Honasan said.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson, former chief of the Philippine National Police, said legislation can also help in abating further the number of injuries or even casualties during New Year’s revelry.
”Probably legislation as a tool can help in this regard because in Bocaue, Bulacan, you will surely find the most powerful and destructive firecrackers that could easily qualify as explosives,” Lacson said.
Lacson said the public have been taking for granted threats and warnings “simply because enforcement as a follow-through is lacking if not absent.”
Senate President Juan Enrile said proper implementation of the ordinances regulating firecrackers is enough to stop reduce revelry-related injuries.
The DOH reported that fireworks-related injuries reached 697 or 29% lower as compared to 984 cases last year.
But more than a dozen people were also killed or wounded by stray bullets.
Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said: “This tragedy is a sobering reminder of how a reprehensible act from a thoughtless individual can rob our people, particularly our children, of their futures. For such a promising life to be lost in such a senseless way puts the burden on all of us to make certain that this tragedy is not repeated. We continue to call on all Filipinos – let us consider the welfare of our countrymen by engaging in celebrations in a responsible and safe manner.” (With a report from Jelly Musico)
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