Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla urged local government units (LGUs) to enforce rules and regulations on firecrackers and other pyrotechnics in their respective jurisdiction to prevent firecracker-related injuries.
In a memorandum, Remulla called on LGUs to issue ordinances and other regulations banning or discouraging individuals or households from using firecrackers as prescribed by Executive Order No. 28 series of 2017.
He also said LGUs must restrict the use of firecrackers only to community fireworks displays that have secured necessary permits and conduct information campaigns on the dangers of prohibited fireworks.
He instructed the BFP to ensure that fire exhibition safe zones are guided by the provisions of Republic Act No. 9514 or the Fire Code of the Philippines.
At the same time, the DILG Chief directed the Philippine National Police to conduct inspection, confiscation, and destruction of illegal fireworks and pyrotechnic devices.
The public is also discouraged from patronizing illegal or otherwise hazardous fireworks and use alternative noise-inducing items such as horns, recycled containers, pans, and other common household items.
As of December 20, 2024, a total of 32 pyrotechnic-related incidents have been recorded by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) with 24 injured civilians and five casualties reported.
Meanwhile, the DILG likewise encouraged LGUs to enforce Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 to maintain cleanliness and orderliness in public places during the holiday season.
