ILOILO City – Authorities have placed Iloilo City under a 10-day gun ban starting February 20, suspending all permits to carry firearms outside residence as security forces tighten control ahead of the high-level Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings scheduled from February 25 to 27.
The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) announced the temporary suspension of Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) from 12:01 a.m. on February 20 until 11:59 p.m. on March 1, 2026, covering the days before, during, and immediately after the regional gathering.
“In line with security preparations for the 2026 ASEAN Meetings, the Philippine National Police announces the temporary suspension of Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) within Iloilo City,” the advisory stated.
Police said the sweeping measure forms part of a broader security blanket being enforced across the city to safeguard delegates and officials from ASEAN member states expected to attend the ministerial-level meetings.
“The suspension aims to ensure public safety and maintain peace and order during this significant international event,” PRO-6 said.
Under the directive, only uniformed and on-duty personnel from authorized law enforcement agencies will be allowed to carry firearms.
“Only members of the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) performing official duties and wearing agency-prescribed uniforms are authorized to carry firearms during this period,” the police advisory added.
Police appealed for public cooperation as the city prepares to host the regional summit.
“We seek the public’s understanding and cooperation as we work together to make ASEAN 2026 safe and secure,” PRO-6 said.
Authorities earlier reported increased police visibility and intensified coordination among security forces across Iloilo City as part of comprehensive preparations to ensure the safe and orderly conduct of the ASEAN meetings./PN
