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Why President Duterte's Firecracker Control Is Good For The Holidays


One of the best things that President Rodrigo R. Duterte has done is to actually create a firecracker control policy. This new policy bans the use of firecrackers and the like in residences. On the other hand, fireworks can be used in designated areas such as malls or parks but only with the supervision of a trained person with a license under the Philippine National Police. This also bans dangerous firecrackers such as the five star and the piccolo. Please don't tell me "But it's Filipino tradition to celebrate with firecrackers." because firecrackers aren't a Filipino invention but a Chinese invention.

Some Filipinos may remember growing up with the noise pollution during Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve... or in extension Chinese New Year's Eve. New Year's Eve isn't really so much of a time of revelry because of the injuries. How can you have a Merry Christmas or Happy New Year if you ended up injuring yourself with firecrackers? Worse, how can you have Happy Holidays if your house or the whole neighborhood caught on fire because of the irresponsible use of firecrackers? 


This should also raise the issue of air and noise pollution. Did you know India frequently suffers from air smog because of the uncontrolled firecrackers during the celebration of Diwali? I could remember how the smoke released by the firecrackers always led to me coughing heavily. If it's not just air pollution it's also noise pollution. Some people may be sick or need rest during the Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve. Sadly, they may not get the sleep they need because of the air and noise pollution brought by firecrackers. 

How does it benefit to actually have safety zones with trained persons with license under PNP? This will minimize injuries related to firecrackers.This would mean that if any injuries happen they will be easier to monitor. Having these designated places will allow those who wish to sleep through the celebration some sleep. Those who wish to enjoy the revelry can go to those designated areas and supervision will help minimize bad incidents.

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