Senator Nancy Binay on Sunday suggested that the mayors could just sponsor a KTV or street party to prevent injuries in welcoming the new year
“It doesn’t have to be grand, and the mayors don’t have to pay for everything. They can go potluck and people can pitch in,” Binay said.
She also urged local government units, particularly the villages, to organize activities that would foster a deeper sense of community among the residents.
She said it would be best for everyone to keep safety at the forefront of the New Year’s Eve celebration. She called on the public to employ more creative ways to usher in the New Year instead of resorting to fireworks and firecrackers.
She also urged authorities to strictly monitor the vendors selling illegal firecrackers to protect the public.
“It’s right to be creative in welcoming the New Year. I welcome limiting the use of firecrackers to protect the children,” Binay said.
READ: Firecrackers in low supply, vendors up prices by 30%
She said the increase in the prices of basic goods due to inflation could nevertheless dissuade families from buying firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
Binay has filed a bill aiming to “reduce the number of injuries sustained by children by prohibiting the selling, giving or in any way sharing of firecrackers.”
She said the police should exhaust all means to reduce the number of fireworks-related injuries this year.
The Health department says the number of fireworks-related injuries as of 6 am on Dec. 30 was 46.
READ: NCRPO tabs 400 areas as firecracker use zones