By Cherrylin Caacbay

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso signed an ordinance prohibiting the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, the city government announced on Tuesday, Dec. 28.

Under the Executive Order No. 52, the manufacture, sale, distribution or use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, and the conduct of community fireworks displays within the city are strictly prohibited.

Domagoso said members of the Manila Police District (MPD) will conduct roving patrols across the city to observe and ensure the implementation of the ordinance.

The city mayor also encouraged the residents to use “torotot” or trumpet and cauldron instead of firecrackers.

"Maging responsable tayong mamamayan para sa ating pamayanan. Maging responsable tayong ama o ina para sa ating mga anak. Maging responsable tayong anak sa ating mga magulang at sa ating kapwa, (Let’s all be responsible citizens for our community. Let’s all be responsible fathers or mothers for our children. Let’s all be responsible children to our parents and to our neighbor)," Domagoso said.

The use of firecrackers such as Super Lolo, The Atomic Big, Triangulo, Five Star, Pla-pla, Piccolo, Giant Whistle Bomb, and other related devices with more than 0.2 grams or 1/3 teaspoon of explosives is prohibited.

The mayor urged the public to save up for emergency purposes and pray for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic that has affected many lives.

"Enjoy the New Year, pray hard, and prayer harder, and wish for a healthy new year at madinig ng Panginoong Diyos ‘yung inaasam niyong tagumpay sa buhay para sa inyong mga anak at pamilya, at inaasam na kaligtasan na matigil na ang pandemyang ito dulot ng COVID-19 infection (that the Lord may hear your wish for the success for your children and family, and your desire to stop the COVID-19 pandemic),” Domagoso said.