Why not indeed? Instead of pouring huge amounts into firecrackers that cause noise and air pollution and damage to life, limb, and property every year, why not use your hard-earned money that otherwise will be wasted on a destructive practice for the rehabilitation of Marawi?
The EcoWaste Coalition, a waste and pollution watchdog, is proposing this. The group says that we can all help Marawi City rise up out of the devastating armed conflict by not lighting firecrackers and fireworks this Yuletide season.
Why not go for a quieter, safer and austere celebration of Christmas and the New Year sans firecrackers and pyrotechnics in solidarity with the Maranao people who are still grappling with the impacts of the war against the Maute terror group on their lives?
“We appeal to our fellow Filipinos to think twice before buying firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices or staging costly firework displays at a time when tens of thousands of residents of the war-torn city are in need of our compassion and assistance,” says Aileen Lucero, National Coordinator, EcoWaste Coalition.
Marawi City, during happier times. Photo source.
She asks everyone, especially those with money to burn for firecrackers and pyrotechnics, not to be insensitive to the plight of the Marawi people, especially the children, the elderly and the internally displaced persons.
Instead of causing bodily injury and property damage, and instead of polluting the environment with chemical-laden smoke, soot and trash, we should all share our blessings instead to responsible charities and agencies helping to rebuild shattered lives, she suggests.
Even Ginger and Kimchi are urging us to say “no” to firecrackers, which scare and hurt them, as well as all other pets, especially the ones that are on the streets.
Aside from not spending for firecrackers and pyrotechnics, the EcoWaste Coalition are also requesting concerned offices not to spend for “Merry Christmas” tarpaulins and excessive decorations, avoid ostentatious parties and celebrations, and to channel the resources saved for the rehabilitation of Marawi.
You can donate here: IT’S NOT YET OVER, HELP MARAWI’S CHILDREN (a WhenInManila.com Fundraising Campaign).
I’m all for this idea. What about you? Do you agree? Why or why not? Comment below.
