Bulacan 6th District Rep. Salvador Pleyto manifested his support in strengthening the regulation of the fireworks industy rather than enforcing a total ban on the manufacturing of pyrotechnics in the Philippines.
Pleyto expressed concern that a total ban will cause people to lose their jobs in Bulacan, a province known for manufacturing fireworks.
"Higpitan natin. Kailangan yung mga barangay official, mga kagawad, bantayan nila," Pleyto said on Monday, January 1, during DZRH's Damdaming Bayan.
"Sigurado balang araw pwede natin i-ban ito kung talagang may hanap-buhay na ang ating mga kababayan," the congressman added.
Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos earlier implored all local government units to implement a total ban of fireworks, and limit pyrotechnic displays to a single area in order to avoid firecracker-related injuries.
"Kailangan pag-usapan mabuti ito dahil sa kakulangan pa rin ng hanap-buhay dito," Pleyto said.
He expects that the construction of the New Manila International Airport, and the Philippine Arena in Bulacan will create new jobs for the province away from the manufacturing of fireworks.
The lawmaker also welcomes the programs of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the Department of Labor and Employment to increase livelihood opportunities across the Philippines.
