Pasay authorities to arrest violators of firecracker ban 

Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano issued an executive order imposing a total ban on the use of fireworks during New Year’s Eve revelry in the city to minimize the risk of injuries and casualties, according to a report by Manila Bulletin.

Rubiano said the EO is in line with Preident Duterte’s Executive Order No. 28 which regulates and controls the use of firecrackers.

The ban is also in accordance with a resolution of the National Capital Region Peace and Order Council which recommended the banning of firecrackers in Metro Manila.

The Philippine National Police said it will not issue special permits for community fireworks display to discourage mass gatherings as a measure against the spread of the coronavirus.

Rubiano said the local government will not likewise issue any special permit “pursuant to the authority provide under EO No. 28, Series of 2017.”

Rubiano instructed the local police as well as barangay officials, Pasay Public Order and Safety Unit and the Pasay Environment and Natural Resources Office to strictly enforce the ban.

According to the mayor, “persons that violate this order may be arrested and charged under (i) Sangguniang Ordinances; and/ or (ii) Se. 9 of Republic Act No. 1132, which penalizes non-cooperation of person or entities affected by a health event of public concern; and/or (iii) Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code (resistance and disobedience to a person in authority).