Manila, Nov. 21 -- The city government launched the multi-sectoral Task Force Paputok 2019 here on Wednesday to coordinate the sale of firecrackers and its safe use to minimize injuries during Christmas and New Year holidays.
Acting Mayor El Cid Familiaran on November 11 issued Memorandum No. 160, directing Executive Assistant III Ernesto Pineda to head the task force.
In a press conference held at the old City Hall, Pineda said the area behind the Pope John Paul II Tower at the Reclamation Area remains to be the only designated place for the sale of firecrackers and pyrotechnics in the city.
At least 68 vendors have applied for special permits to sell with a fee of PHP1,500.
"All firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices sold outside the de...