DAVAO CITY – President Duterte said it was too late to implement an immediate ban on fireworks nationwide.
Speaking to reporters at the Wireless Catholic Cemetery in Davao,P Duterte said the national government has until April by next year to iron out the details of the ban.
“Kasi they all have invested… it would not be fair,” Duterte said.
According to the President, the least that the government can do was increase the information education campaign on the ills of fireworks.
“We use to hit something like… almost in the previous years – 600 serious cases of children going blind, losing a limb – a finger, a hand,” said Duterte.
During his stint as Davao City mayor, Duterte implemented a citywide ban on fireworks resulting not only in less casualty or injury but also enabled hospital staff to have time organizing Christmas and New Year parties.
Nabili na nila iyong mga materials, bayad na iyong iba. At this time, I’d like to put on notice everybody that I have seriously considering of… making the entire Philippines like Davao. We observe the Christmas time with the solemnity and… that befits [everyone’s religion],” said Duterte.
Violators of the Davao City ordinance face fines ranging from P1,000 to P5,000.
Businesses caught violating the ordinance also face permit cancellations.
Duterte however hinted he may implement that measure through if ever congress fails to pass a law on fireworks ban. (Yas D. Ocampo)