MANILA, Philippines — A group advocating for sound chemicals and waste management called for a nationwide ban on the sale and use of firecrackers during the holidays. According to the group BAN Toxics, prohibiting firecrackers may help prevent injuries related to firecrackers and protect the environment. “We support a shift to a safer holiday season in the country. We need to remember ‘safety first’ for our children and the community from the health and environmental pollutants from firecrackers,” said Thony Dizon, Toxics Campaigner of BAN Toxics. The group said that from 2009-2022, more than 40 local government units (LGUs) nationwide have issued local legislation on firecracker regulation. On December 15, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos called on LGUs…
