Marcos to LGUs: Set up fireworks displays to avoid injuries

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 22) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday urged local government units (LGUs) to set up common areas for fireworks displays to prevent injuries this coming New Year.

"I will enjoin the LGUs, instead of allowing our people to have their own firecrackers, gumawa na lang kayo ng magandang fireworks display para sa inyong mga constituents," Marcos said in an ambush interview.

[Translation: I will enjoin the LGUs, instead of allowing our people to have their own firecrackers, just make a nice fireworks display for your constituents.]

He also warned the public about the dangers and health risks of firecracker use.

"Huwag muna tayong magpaputok at alam naman natin kung minsan delikado 'yan. Lalo ngayon at maglalabas sila ng mga paputok na hindi natin alam kung saan galing, kung maayos ang pagkagawa," the president said.

[Translation: Let's not use firecrackers because these are dangerous sometimes. We also do not know where these firecrackers come from or if they are manufactured properly.]

During the previous New Year festivities, the Department of Health (DOH) recorded at least 85 firecracker-related injuries.

Former Secretary Francisco Duque said the number was 11% lower compared to 96 reported cases in 2021.

READ: DOH: 85 firecracker-related injuries logged so far during New Year revelry

The DOH earlier assured the public that hospitals will be on "high alert" in dealing with injuries this coming 2023.

"Itong darating na papalapit na New Year, lahat ng ating mga hospitals ay naka 'high alert' for all individuals with injuries and emergencies na posibleng mangyari," the agency said.

[Translation: This coming New Year, all our hospitals are on 'high alert' for all individuals with injuries and emergencies that may occur.]

READ: Hospitals on 'high alert' amid New Year festivities - DOH