MANILA, Philippines — President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday said he has directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other concerned government agencies to further strengthen law enforcement against prohibited firecrackers.

He said vendors and even individuals buying prohibited firecrackers should be apprehended.

In his New Year message released Monday, Aquino also urged the public not to buy prohibited firecrackers.

He said it is better to be safe in the New Year than to welcome 2012 with injuries.

According to the Chief Executive, there were 1,022 individuals who were victimized by firecrackers and stray bullet last year.

“Maaari po tayong magtipon sa kani-kaniya nating mga pasyalan at plaza upang panoorin ang mga fireworks display na isinasagawa ng ating munisipyo at ng pribadong sektor. Maaari ring mag-ingay sa ibang paraan—sa kalampag, sa torotot, o sa tugtugin. Ligtas na paraan po ang mga ito [We may gather at parks or plazas to watch fireworks display by our municipal government or the private sector. We can also make loud noise using other means – by making clanking sounds, torotot or music. These are safer ways to welcome the New Year],” Aquino said.

He said he is also one with the Department of Health (DoH)’s Aksyon Paputok Injury Reduction or APIR campaign which aims to lessen injuries in welcoming the New Year.

“Panahon na nga po ng bagong pag-iisip. Sama-sama nating salubungin ang Bagong Taon nang ligtas--nang may pagpapahalaga sa buhay at sa kapaligiran [It’s time to change our mindset and unite in welcoming the New year with safety – one that values life and surroundings],” Aquino said