Davao residents still want pyrotechnics display

SOME residents would want the Davao City Government to provide a common area for pyrotechnics display instead of banning their use altogether.

In 2001, then Mayor Rodrigo Duterte ordered a total ban on firecrackers in the city. The following year, the City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting the manufacture, possession, and use of firecrackers in the city.

Melba Bajao, pharmacist of MD Drug Store on San Pedro Street, said that although she welcomes the firecracker ban, it would still be fun to see some fireworks.

"Davao residents should not be deprived of a tradition in celebrating Christmas and welcoming the New Year," she said. "Dapat may (There should be a) common place...like in Manila, there's a barge used for pyrotechnic display."

Victor Macaldo, a grade six teacher from Magallanes Elementary School (MES), echoed her sentiment, saying the ban has its negative and positive effects.

He said that although the ordinance helps prevent injuries during Christmas and New Year celebrations, the city should give its residents a common place to witness a pyrotechnic display.

Duterte, who is now vice mayor, refused to allow any kind of pyrotechnic on the premise that once one kind will be allowed, then traders and buyers will find some means to bring in others as well.

He also frowned on the idea of setting up a pyrotechnic display as, he said, this is a blatant show of wastefulness, with government and private sector money literally blowing up in just a matter of minutes. The mayor instead institutionalized the annual Christmas treats for the poor. (Jereco O. Paloma)