By Genalyn Kabiling
After limiting the use of firecrackers to community displays, President Duterte is now pushing for a ban on firecrackers in the country.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (TOTO LOZANO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO)
The President said he would soon sign an executive order prohibiting the use of firecrackers in a bid to put an end to New Year's Eve-related injuries.
"I will issue the executive order at this early para warning na doon sa lahat that I am banning firecracker altogether," Duterte said during the turnover of housing units to wounded soldiers and cops in Bulacan.
Duterte said he would ask the justice department to review thoroughly the proposed firecracker ban before signing the order.
"Bakit akong papayag na noon 700 dead, tapos maski isang bata na mawalan ng kamay? So as a president why would I allow it?" he said.
"Sarahan natin 'yan. That's the last chapter 'yung firecrackers . Do not believe in paalisin mo ang demonyo," he added.
In 2017, President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 28 restricting citizens from using firecrackers at home. Only community firework displays have been permitted as designated places under police supervision to minimize the risk of injuries and casualties.
This time however the President wants all firecrackers banned.
"Wala 'yan sa gobyerno because sabihin ng mga gago na ‘Kita mo ang gobyerno na ito ulol. Kung sila ang magpa-fireworkers, pwede tapos tayo hindi.' Ganyan ang Pilipino. O 'di wala," he said.
“Kagaya sa Davao, tahimik parang Biyernes Santo,” said the former mayor of Davao City.