Mayor Jeannie Sandoval encouraged Malabueños to refrain from the use of firecrackers, fireworks, and other pyrotechnic devices during the New Year celebration.

The city mayor emphasized that public safety remains the city government’s top priority, while authorities are prepared to respond to emergencies during the celebration.

“As we welcome the year 2026, nais nating ipaalala sa ating mga kababayan na ang kaligtasan, kaayusan, at seguridad ng bawat pamilya ang ating pangunahing prayoridad,” she said in a statement on Tuesday, Dec. 30.

She encouraged residents to opt for safer alternatives such as torotot, musical instruments, and other noise-making items that do not pose risks to life and property.

Para sa mas ligtas, mas masagana, at mas mapayapang selebrasyon, iwasan po natin ang paggamit ng paputok at anumang maaaring magdulot ng sakuna. Sa halip, gumamit na lamang ng mas ligtas na alternatibo gaya ng torotot at mga instrumentong pangmusika. Bagama’t handa ang pamahalaang lungsod sa pagtugon sa anumang insidente, mas mainam pa rin na ang kaligtasan ay magsimula sa loob at labas ng ating mga tahanan at komunidad,” she said.

Malabon City Ordinance No. 11-2015 will be strictly enforced, prohibiting the sale, distribution, possession, and use of firecrackers by minors.

Violators may face fines ranging from P3,000 for voluntary payment to P5,000 for contested cases, as well as possible imprisonment of up to 30 days.

The ordinance aims to protect children and youth from injuries, fires, and other accidents linked to pyrotechnics.

Meanwhile, the Malabon City Police Station will fully implement a total ban on the manufacture, sale, distribution, possession, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices throughout the city.

Authorities stressed that the ban applies to all individuals and establishments, with corresponding penalties for violators.

Residents were also advised to watch fireworks displays only in designated areas, at People’s Park in Brgy. Catmon and Plaza Diwa in Brgy. Tugatog.

Data from the city government showed that during the New Year 2025 celebration, 40 fireworks-related injuries were recorded in hospitals and health centers across Malabon between December 21, 2024, and January 5, 2025.

Nearly 45 percent of the incidents occurred on January 1, while 67.5 percent involved bystanders. About 60 percent of injuries happened on public roads, mostly involving blast or burn injuries, with 35 percent affecting the head.

Mayor Sandoval reiterated that a joyful New Year does not require firecrackers, which have long been associated with injuries, fires, and property damage. The city government instead encouraged families to celebrate through safer activities such as using household items to make noise, playing music, responsibly honking vehicle horns, or enjoying karaoke at home.

To further prevent fireworks-related incidents, the city will strengthen coordination with the Malabon City Police Station and the Bureau of Fire Protection, while activating concerned offices to intensify monitoring across communities.