Iloilo City wants countdown to prevent use of firecrackers
The Iloilo City government is planning to organize a community countdown in welcoming the New Year as a way to bring the people out of their homes and discourage them from using firecrackers.
City Tourism and Development Officer chief Benito Jimena said Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has broached the idea that instead of Ilonggos staying at their homes and welcoming 2011 with firecrackers it would be better if they join the community party initially planned to be held at the Jaro plaza.
A fireworks display will be provided by the city government, through the support of possible donors.
Jimena said it has been a Filipino culture to stay at home during the occasion but the city government wants to educate Ilonggos on the value of a community celebration in welcoming the New Year.
Aside from the fireworks display, the activity will be highlighted by the awarding of winners for the proposed video contest, a documentary featuring the city’s festival of lights.
The festival of lights already kicked off Friday last week, illuminating city plazas and major thoroughfares during night time.
It will last until January 2 to give way to the promotional materials of the Dinagyang Festival 2011.*PNA
