Quezon City bans firecrackers

MANILA, Philippines — In time for the holiday season, Quezon City has passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices in all public spaces in the city. 

Ordinance SP 2618, S-2017 bans the use of fireworks in all public spaces during any festivity or occasion unless a clearance from the City Department of Public Order and Safety (DPOS) is obtained. 

Violators could face a fine of P5,000 or one year’s imprisonment under the measure. 

The ordinance, introduced by District 2 Councilor Ranulfo Ludovica, was signed into law by Mayor Herbert Bautista on Oct. 13 after it was passed on third and final reading by the city council on Sept. 25. 

All firecrackers would be banned from any public space, which include city streets, roads, alleys, open spaces, public parks, plazas, basketball courts and other similar places. 

The DPOS is expected to craft the implementing rules and regulations of the ordinance 30 days after is approved by the city mayor. 

At least 25 persons, including 13 minors, were injured by firecrackers during last year’s holiday season, according to police.