Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has once again pushed for a ban on the sale, distribution, and use of firecrackers, citing the surge in their online availability. In a recent statement, Gatchalian highlighted the need for new laws to curb the online sale of firecrackers, which has become a growing concern. He pointed out the particular danger posed by the sale of large, hazardous firecrackers online, often referred to as ‘killer’ firecrackers. Gatchalian stressed the importance of cooperation among government bodies, online platforms, and local communities to enforce a ban and encourage safer celebration methods. In 2022, he introduced Senate Bill No. 1144, aiming to revise Republic Act 7183 to establish a Firecrackers Prohibition Act. He criticized the effectiveness of Executive Order No. 28 in preventing firecracker-related injuries. Gatchalian argued that celebrations do not require fireworks and urged consideration of the potential dangers they pose. His proposed legislation would outlaw the sale, distribution, possession, and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices, with allowances only for professional displays. Individuals interested in using fireworks would need to obtain a special permit from the Philippine National Police Fire and Explosives Office, and only trained professionals would be permitted to manage pyrotechnic devices.
Senator Gatchalian Urges Ban on Firecrackers Due to Increased Online Sales
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