QCPD to enforce firecracker ban

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) yesterday warned people that they would be arrested if they disobey the ban on firecrackers and pyrotechnics.

Brig. Gen. Danilo Macerin, director of the QCPD, issued the warning as he ordered commanders of the 16 police stations in the city to deploy police officers for foot and mobile patrols so that people would strictly comply with the firecracker ban.

Macerin also directed the District Reactionary Standby Special Force to augment their personnel at the police stations.

“Lahat po ng lalabag sa firecracker ban ay huhulihin kung kaya’t hinihingi ko ang kooperasyon ng bawat isa na sumunod,” Macerin said in a statement.

Violators will be fined up to P5,000 and penalized with one year in prison.

Mayor Joy Belmonte has ordered the strict enforcement of Ordinance No. SP 2618 S-2016, which prohibits the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices in Quezon City during the New Year revelry.

“Aside from reducing firecracker-related injuries, the strict implementation of the ordinance will discourage mass gatherings in compliance with COVID-19 health protocols,” Belmonte said.

Metro Manila mayors have banned the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics in welcoming the New Year.