Cruz, Manila, I was used to all the prohibited firecrackers exploding around the neighborhood, including the “cannons” fashioned out of bamboo. These problems have bedeviled the local fireworks industry, which has seen earnings progressively slide due to public safety and health concerns. Instead the local industry is facing stiff competition from better products imported from places such as Taiwan. Our local fireworks industry should be able to compete with the world’s best. At least I still expect to see those brilliant fireworks in our neighborhood this New Year’s Eve.

Source: Philippine Star December 28, 2017 16:18 UTC