ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) is warning barangay watchmen (tanod) and barangay officials in Western Visayas not to carry unlicensed firearms.
They are not allowed to carry or possess homemade firearms especially outside their residence, said Police Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Solis, PRO-6 spokesperson.
“There is a proposal or suggestion to arm civilian organizations especially tanod members, but this is not yet approved. Those possessing firearms will be arrested,” Solis said.
Solis’ warning came after Sunday’s shooting in Barangay Cansilayan, Valderrama, Antique involving 30-year-old tanod member Jerald Banesio.
Police said Banesio shot to death Rex Roquero, 25, and Richard Canja, 37.
The three had an argument while binge drinking around 10 p.m. at the suspect’s house, police added.
The suspect reportedly shot the victims using a 12-gauge shotgun, hitting their heads.
Banesio was later arrested and detained at the Valderrama police station,.
According to Solis, barangay officials, tanod members and civilians can possess firearms but they have to secure a License to Own and Possess Firearms, firearms license and Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence.
President Rodrigo Duterte suggested arming civilian organizations and serveas partners of the police in fighting crime.
This was backed by Philippine National Police chief, Police General Guillermo Eleazar, saying this “encourage volunteerism and definitely not vigilantism.”/PN
