Senator Loren Legarda has urged the authorities to strictly implement the Clean Air Act after Metro Manila’s air quality reportedly reached “very unhealthy” levels during the New Year celebrations.
“Excessive fireworks celebrations across Metro Manila pose lots of risks, not only the safety of external body parts but also to the lungs and nose because of the excessive amount of smoke released by burning gunpowder,” Legarda said in a news release.
“The Clean Air Act mandates the State to assure that the air we breathe in is safe and is devoid of impurities that might pollute our respiratory systems.”
According to reports, several Metro Manila cities tallied alarming levels of air pollution as the National Capital Region (NCR) was enveloped in a thick cloud of smoke on January 1.
“Over 25 years ago, we mandated the government to regulate carbon emissions, and until now, not much have been done in curtailing the increased pollution during the turn of the calendar,” said the senator who authored and co-sponsored the law.
“We should strictly implement the banning of illegal fireworks, and curb pollution by minimizing fireworks displays in specific areas assigned by local government units to help avoid any untoward injuries or damage to properties sustained in fires caused by wayward projectiles.” PNA