The Police Regional Office (PRO-6) has announced the suspension of all permits to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) in Iloilo City starting 12:01 in the morning of January 13 to 11:59 in the evening of January 22.
“This announcement is based on the request of the Iloilo City Government signed by Honorable Mayor Jerry P. Treñas dated November 10, 2022 and was approved by the Chief, Philippine National Police, Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr on December 6, 2022,” said PRO-6 director Police Brigadier General Leo M. Francisco.
The suspension of PTCFORs aims to preempt any firearm-related incidents in line with the weeklong duration of major events of the Dinagyang Festival 2022 celebration here.
Francisco also noted that only members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other Law Enforcement Agencies (OLEAs), who are performing official duties and in agency-prescribed uniforms, will be allowed to carry their issued firearms for the period.
With this, the Western Visayas top cop implored the cooperation of the public in relation to this move to ensure a peaceful and orderly celebration of Dinagyang in honor of the child Jesus or Sto. Niño.
“We appeal to the public to cooperate and obey the guidelines in order to avoid firearm-related incidents and violation of the said ban. Let us all enjoy the festivity and help each other to achieve a crime-free Dinagyang Festival 2023 celebration,” Francisco added.JBG/FRG/PIA6/Story from PRO6-RPIO
