Weak demand
PEOPLE support efforts to bring down the number of fireworks-related injuries, particularly during tomorrow night’s New Year revelry.
Reports said that despite the low prices of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, the demand for these traditional “noisemakers” has been weak.
Some quarters attributed this to the current economic hardship in the Philippines, with the people preferring to buy food instead of firecrackers.
Besides, more and more Filipinos, including those in the impoverished countryside, are seen to use “torotot” and other non-explosive noisemakers.
“Talagang marami na tayong kababayan, kasama na ang mga bata, na ayaw masaktan sa kanilang pagsalubong ng Bagong Taon sa Linggo,” a father said.
Concerned government authorities would do well to enforce ordinances banning the use of firecrackers outside the so-called “fireworks display areas.”
Better still, parents and guardians ought to stop their children from exploding firecrackers or lighting “pailaw” during the revelry.
For its part, the Philippine National Police (PNP) warned the public against buying firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices online.
The government is on the right track in stepping up the nationwide campaign against the use of illegal and defective ‘crackers.
