DAVAO CITY – There are other ways to celebrate the New Year aside from the traditional fireworks and using other pyrotechnic devices, Malacanang said Monday.
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said playing loud music, staging street parties are the “safe and sound” ways to welcome the New Year on Friday.
Coloma said they are supporting the Department of Health’s annual campaign against the use of pyrotechnic materials.
The DOH has released the slogan “Tetano ay Nakamamatay, Huwag Pasaway; Sa Paputok May Goodbye” to discourage the public from using firecrackers and other explosive devices as these often cause serious injuries even cause death.
“Muli nating pinaaalalahanan ang mga kababayan, lalo’t higit ang mga magulang na bantayan ang kanilang mga anak sa paggamit ng mga paputok, at himukin silang gumamit ng mga alternatibo at ligtas na pamamaraan ng pag-iingay tulad ng torotot, musika, kaldero at maging ang pagdaraos ng kasiyahan sa kalye o ‘street parties’ bilang pagsalubong sa bagong taon (Once again we remind our fellowmen, especially parents to look after their children in using firecrackers and encourage them to use alternative and safe way to welcome the New Year like using horns, music, pots and holding street parties),” Coloma said.
Coloma said the DOH continues to work with the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Philippine National Police to prevent the sale of illegal firecrackers.
Public hospitals and other facilities nationwide would also remain on ‘Code White,’ the highest alert level of DOH, which it has imposed since December 21 to attend to those people who might need immediate medical attention during the holiday period. (davaotoday.com)
