DAVAO, Philippines – Fireworks are illegal in Davao and this is known by all its residents.

But on New Year's Eve, there were still a few adventurous souls who thought they could get away with setting off a few firecrackers.

Some of them, like Jerry Booc and Jicon Maitom, are now in jail and regret their actions.

“Hinding-hindi na talaga ako magpapaputok sa susunod,” said Booc.

A total of 94 people were put behind bars for violating the ban.

The local government still boasts of a zero-casualty record.

Unlike scenes in other parts of the country, Davao hospitals did not need to deal with firecracker injuries.

Davao residents said they have gotten used to the absence of fireworks, adding there are many other ways to welcome the New Year.

One family threw thousands of pesos worth of coins at their neighbors.

On Roxas Avenue, around 800 people joined the New Year’s Eve fun run, which turned into a celebration in the end.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources believes that the success of the firecracker ban can be replicated throughout the country.

For the Ecowaste Coalition, a total ban can only mean good news for the environment.