Manila, Philippines — Ahead of new year, Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian on Friday has been pushing for a total ban on firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, citing the heightened availability of such products through online platforms.
“With more people turning to online shopping, we must enact legislation to ban the sale and distribution of firecrackers before it becomes a safety issue,” Gatchalian said in a statement.
The senator raised concerns over reports of oversized or dangerous firecrackers being sold online, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter regulation to prevent potential accidents and injuries.
Likewise, Sen. Gatchalian called for coordination between government agencies, online platforms, and local communities to enforce the proposed ban and promote safer celebratory practices.
In 2022, the senator filed Senate Bill No. 1144, seeking to amend Republic Act 7183, known as the Firecrackers and Pyrotechnic Devices Act. It was then renamed to Firecrackers Prohibition Act.
In this bill, the sale, distribution, possession, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic device will be prohibited, unless for professional uses.
“We don’t need fireworks to enjoy a celebration. Let’s also think of the potential tragedies they can cause,” he said.