Over the years and for millions of Filipinos, regulations and advisories on the use of firecrackers have been mere suggestions.
Many of us grew up in the tradition of noise and light on New Year’s Eve. Some honestly believe that the revelry can drive out bad luck, evil spirits or negative vibes. Others think it can usher in good fortune. Some simply feel that the celebrations would be incomplete without them.
The worst are those who keep tradition for the sake of keeping them, without even really knowing why.
Year after year, we see the folly of these practices. Fireworks displays are relatively safe and nice to watch, but the more dangerous kind maims and kills either the users themselves or innocent bystanders. It’s unnecessary risk and a waste of money, and those bold enough to challenge tradition would see why.
It is good that the Palace issued Executive Order 28 in the middle of last year to regulate the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices. The order tasks the Philippine National Police to coordinate with the Department of Health, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Bureau of Fire Protection in enforcing the order.
Likewise, the DILG has warned the public against violating Republic Act 7183—an Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and Other Pyrotechnic Devices. Those breaching the law will fined, imprisoned, or both.
The law lists the firecrackers that are prohibited—piccolo or “scratch bangers,” pop pop, Goodbye Philippines or Crying Badi
Rockets, Lolo Thunder, Pillbox, Boga, Big Judah’s Belt, Big Bawang, Kwiton, Bin Laden, Kabasi, Atomic Bomb, Five Star, Og, and Giant Whistle Bombs, and all others exceeding two grams or 1.3 teaspoons of gunpowder.
As a compromise, others are allowed—Baby rocket, bawang, small triangle, pulling of strings, paper caps, el diablo, and sky rocket (kwitis), sparklers, luces, fountains, jumbo regular and special, mabuhay, Roman candle, trompillo, airwolf, whistle device, and butterfly.
The bulk of the responsibility will be on local government leaders whose stewardship will determine how strictly these regulations are implemented, and how violators are dealt with. It’s a big task for police communities at the height of celebrations, and only those with strong will can get their jobs done, and done right.
Today the noise has died down and the air has cleared. We have yet to see whether the campaign is successful, even as we wonder why seemingly commonsensical things have to be legislated.
A better year would allow Filipinos to realize, on their own, that they must simply stay away from the things that pose danger to themselves and others.