PNP approves month-long gun ban in Davao

By Frances Mae Gevera-Macapagat

DAVAO CITY, March 8 (PIA) – The Philippine National Police approved yesterday (March 7) the request of Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte-Carpio for a declaration of gun ban in the city for the entire month of March.

PNP Chief Nicanor Bartolome found it necessary to grant a gun ban declaration in Davao City for a peaceful celebration of the Araw ng Davao.

The memorandum issued by the PNP chief clearly stated that only members of the PNP and the Armed Forced of the Philippines (AFP) and other Law Enforcement Agencies who are performing official duties and in agency-prescribed uniforms will be allowed to carry firearms in the city.

It was also stated that the PNP chief found it important as part of the security preparation to ensure that the celebration of the Araw ng Davao will be free from firearm-related incidents and safe for the populace as well as tourists.

This directive will be implemented through the Police Integrated Patrol System that includes the conduct of checkpoints, Oplan Bakal, mobile/beat patrol and other police security operations in close coordination with the AFP, other law enforcement agencies, government agencies and LGUs.

Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte remained doubtful if the gun ban declaration will truly serve its purpose.

In a television interview, he said criminals might take advantage of the situation and the security of civilians could be placed at risk since these criminals, no matter how many restrictions are in place, would still carry out their plan.

Meanwhile, the PNP chief ordered for the local PNP to submit an activity report on April 5 that includes an assessment on the implementation of the suspension of the Permit to Carry Firearms relative to its impact on the maintenance of the peace and order situation in Davao City. (PIA-11/Frances Mae Gevera-Macapagat)