Tandag City marks injury-free yuletide revelries
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — The Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga reported zero cases of fireworks-related injuries in Surigao del Sur, including Tandag City, as of January 2, following the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
This milestone was confirmed by City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) Chief Reyveen John Geli, who stated that city rescuers and emergency responders responded to no incidents of fireworks-related injuries during the holiday festivities.
Geli attributed the achievement to the city government’s intensified campaign against the use, sale, and manufacture of firecrackers and pyrotechnics, coupled with heightened preparedness measures. He added that the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) of Tandag City was activated effective December 31, 2025, ensuring round-the-clock monitoring and rapid response to any emergencies during the celebration.
Before the New Year, the city strictly enforced Republic Act No. 7183, or ‘An Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and Other Pyrotechnic Devices,’ and Executive Order No. 28, series of 2017, which mandated the regulation and control of fireworks use. In line with these policies, Tandag City imposed a total ban on the use of firecrackers and pyrotechnics in homes and residential areas, as well as the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of all related devices. Authorities reiterated that violators will be prosecuted and penalized under applicable laws.
The CDRRM Office extended its heartfelt gratitude to the general public for their cooperation and discipline, as well as to the Tandag City Emergency Response Team (TCERT) for their dedication and commitment, which collectively ensured a safe, peaceful, and injury-free New Year celebration.
City officials, led by Mayor Roxanne Pimentel, emphasized that the success shows the importance of strong policy enforcement, inter-agency coordination, and community participation in safeguarding public health and safety, especially during major festivities. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
