The local government of Muntinlupa has warned the public that enforcement of the total ban on firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices during the holiday season in the city is still in effect.
Motorists driving a motor vehicle with an open muffler will also be apprehended.
Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi said the local Peace and Order Council, in coordination with Muntinlupa Police, will put up checkpoints and conduct monitoring surveillance on thoroughfares and marketplaces to apprehend violators.
Fresnedi noted that the City Council passed Ordinance No. 14-092, which prohibits the display and distribution of firecrackers in Muntinlupa as part of its efforts to reduce cases of casualties and harmful effects of pyrotechnic devices to health and the environment.
Violators will be fined P1,000 up to P5,000. Commercial establishments selling firecrackers will be apprehended and have their permits and licenses to operate revoked pursuant to penalties provided in the ordinance.
However, owners of malls or similar establishments may sponsor fireworks displays in designated areas upon securing a permit from Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine National Police.
Upon the implementation of the firecracker ban, the City Health Office recorded a significant decrease in casualties from 13 firecracker-related cases in 2016 to six cases in 2017.
Muntinlupa City Health Office acting chief Dr. Teresa Tuliao said the Ospital ng Muntinlupa and other local hospitals are on alert for any firecracker-related injuries or casualties.
The Sentro ng Pangkalusugan (Lying-in) in Brgy. Putatan and Emergency Center Clinic in Brgy. Poblacion will be open 24/7 to augment medical assistance, Tuliao added.
While alternative noise-making activities are encouraged, the Muntinlupa Traffic and Management Bureau warned motorists that the use of aftermarket mufflers, or removal of such, which emit excessive loud noise causing disturbances in the holiday season, will be apprehended.
The City Government also conducted a motorcade on Sunday to launch its “Iwas Paputok” campaign.
Fresnedi urged residents to use alternative noise-making instruments and not to patronize firecrackers. He encouraged Muntinlupa residents to celebrate the New Year’s Eve safely.
Muntinlupa residents are urged to report violators to authorities. Locals may contact the following offices: PNP Muntinlupa (862-2611 / 09083770084), BFP Muntinlupa (842-2201), Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (925-4351), and Ospital ng Muntinlupa (771-0457).