PNP warns fireworks makers vs 'employing' minors

Even as fireworks manufacturers have been ramping up production for the fast-approaching holidays, the Philippine National Police reminded them against employing minors to keep up with demand. The PNP's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) warned against endangering children's lives in such a dangerous industry, according to Radio dzBB's Sam Nielsen in a report aired Friday. Chief Inspector Emma Trinidad, head of the CIDG Women and Children's Protection unit, said recent explosions that gutted fireworks factories show the dangers facing workers in the industry. Even without such major factory accidents and occupational hazards, she said the toxic substances used to make the firecrackers pose a threat to the health of young people. Fireworks factories are increasing production in a bid to keep up with rising demand by the public wanting to stock up for the Christmas and New Year revelries. Last Monday, a fireworks warehouse in Bulacan exploded and damaged nearby houses, killing a woman and injuring at least eight others. On Wednesday, another fireworks factory exploded, but no one was reported injured in that incident. Filipino tradition follows similar Asian traditions of greeting the New Year with noisy firecrackers. The Filipino New Year’s Eve, however has become notoriously famous for its wall-to-wall firecracker explosions, accidental fires, and even gunfire, that produce hundreds of casualties and substantial damage to property every year’s end.—JV, GMANews.TV