By Mario Casayuran
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go Friday cautioned the public against using firecrackers this holiday season.
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go (MALACAÑANG PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
Go also reminded the public that using firecrackers in residential areas is prohibited.
He said the President has signed an executive order regulating firecrackers and they are only allowed in designated areas.
In 2017, the President signed Executive Order 28 limiting the use of firecrackers to community fireworks display.
The activity, according to the order, must be a part of an event and must have a license from the municipal or city government. It must also be conducted under the supervision of a licensed person.
Queried about the possibility of a total ban of firecrackers, Go said that he prefers a law that regulates use.
‘’It depends on the President if this has to be institutionalized by passing a law or just to regulate it to ensure that nobody gets hurt, especially the children,” he explained.
For 2019, the President said, it is the discretion of the local government on what law or regulations to be imposed in their respective areas ‘’but, I think the Filipinos have already adjusted. Maybe because they also want that nobody gets hurt.’’
Meanwhile, Go visited and distributed cash and relief assistance to 51 families that used to live in the 35 houses that were burned to the ground on Christmas Day, December 25 in Sta. Ana, Manila.
Go also offered to pay for the school supplies and uniforms of the affected children and fare for those who want to relocate outside Metro Manila.
For residents who need to undergo an operation, Go offered to take them to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and advised them to ask for help from the Malasakit Center, a one-stop shop for medical and financial assistance from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
“Kung wala naman sa PGH, magsabi po kayo sa akin. Tutulong po ako. Ako na ang magpapa-opera at sasagot sa pamasahe ninyo hanggang makauwi kayo at gumaling kayo (If it is not available in PGH, just tell me. I will help you for your needed surgery and for your fare in going back home when you’re already well),” Go added.
The fire victims received additional assistance from the DSWD, National Housing Authority (NHA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP).
Go asked the residents to continue supporting the government, especially the campaign of the President against illegal drugs, crimes and corruption.
“Iwasan po ninyo ang droga. Kami po ay nakikiusap sa inyo (Stay away from drugs. We are appealing to you),” he said.