Taguig steps up 'Iwas Paputok' campaign

MANILA, Philippines - The local government of Taguig is conducting an intensified crackdown on the sale and use of illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic products in the city to prevent fireworks-related injuries during the New Year celebrations.

At the same time, Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano urged Taguig residents to  refrain from using illegal fireworks during the New Year revelry.

“While fireworks add to the festivity, they can be dangerous, especially the illegal ones. So we are doing what we can to ensure the safety of the public by disallowing the sale of illegal firecrackers," she said.

"Although it has always been the responsibility of our police to be on the lookout, to be on guard, I think that it's also really necessary to have a well informed public," she added.

Besides criminal charges, business permits and other licenses could be revoked if an establishment is found to be selling illegal firecrackers.

Meanwhile, Mayor Mani Cayetano also strictly warned against the use of firearms or engaging in indiscriminate firing during the New Year eve revelry, as it has already resulted in injuries even before the celebrations.

"Those who will engage in this illegal and destructive activity will be dealt with to the full extent of the law," she stressed.

According to Taguig City Chief of Police Senior Superintendent Annie Bodanio, there is an on-going caravan all over Taguig to promote and inform the people of safe alternatives to welcome the new year.

“There is also a distribution of leaflets or fliers on our Iwas Paputok campaign. For the PCP (Police Community Precinct) level, there’s a continuous patrolling and prohibition of illegal firecrackers,” said Bodanio.

Bodanio added that, as part of their drive against indiscriminate firing or illegal discharge of firearms, the Taguig City Police Station participated in a National Capital Region Police Office-wide Simultaneous Taping of Issued Firearms and Accounting of Personnel and Inspection last December 19.

In addition, the Taguig city government also assured the public that all health centers and hospitals will have the adequate number of doctors and medicines in case of emergencies in light of the New Year festivities. Also, the city rescue unit will be on standby to respond during emergency situations.