Parañaque bans use of firecrackers 

Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez issued an executive order prohibiting the exhibition, use, and sale of firecrackers, fireworks, and other pyrotechnic and similar devices, according to a report by Manila Bulletin.

According to Olivarez, the executive order is in pursuant to the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) resolution recommending the ban on the use of all firecrackers in the National Capital Region (NCR) in order to discourage mass gatherings and to promote strict social distancing during the festive season to contain the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Olivarez ordered the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) head, Atty. Melanie Malaya, to revoke and cancel immediately all Mayor’s Permit (special permit) issued to sell, exhibit, and use firecrackers and other pyrotechnics.

City treasurer Anthony Pulmano was also ordered by Olivarez to refund the fees paid to the city government as a consequence of the revocation and cancellation of the issued Mayor’s Permit.

The mayor said that special fireworks showcase or demonstration sanctioned by the police may be conducted upon prior clearance from the Philippine National Police, provided that no mass gathering shall be allowed and the person involved in the demonstration shall strictly adhere to social distancing as well as health and safety protocols.

Olivarez also ordered the BPLO team, the local police, and the barangays to implement the executive order.