ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) urged gun owners to refrain from firing firearms indiscriminately this holiday season, especially during New Year celebrations.
Any person caught firing a firearm in violation of Republic Act No. 11926 (An Act Penalizing Willful and Indiscriminate Discharge of Firearm) shall be penalized.
“They shall suffer the penalty of arresto mayor (one month and one day to six months) in its maximum period,” PRO-6 said.
In addition to the penalties imposed, any firearm license or permit issued in favor of the offender shall be summarily cancelled, and the offender shall be perpetually disqualified from being granted any firearm license or permit.
The PRO-6 likewise encouraged the public that in case of any emergency, suspicious activity, or imminent threat to safety, immediately report to the nearest police station, dial 911, or contact the following PRO-6 hotlines:
* Aklan Police Provincial Office (PPO) – 0998-598-6108
* Antique PPO – 0998-598-6130
* Capiz PPO – 0918-962-6477
* Guimaras PPO – 0998-598-6180
* Iloilo PPO – 0999-529-8131
* Iloilo City PO – 0908-377-0194
* Regional Mobile Force Battalion 6 – 0998-598-7409
• PRO-6 Regional Hotline – 0998-598-6101
Earlier this month, PRO-6 director Brigadier General Josefino Ligan ordered all police units across Western Visayas to conduct information drive against indiscriminate firing.
On Christmas day, December 25, the region recorded its first indiscriminate firing incident.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Rolando Araño, spokesperson for the Iloilo Police Provincial Office, the 25-year-old female victim from Pavia town sustained injury in her left foot.
ONE-STRIKE POLICY
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered the strict enforcement of a one-strike policy against indiscriminate firing as part of heightened security measures this holiday season.
PNP Acting Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said anyone, whether civilian or police personnel, found engaging in indiscriminate firing will face immediate action, without warnings or second chances.
“This measure is meant to deter irresponsible behavior and prevent injuries and deaths, especially during Christmas and New Year celebrations,” said Nartatez.
Police personnel found to have been involved in indiscriminate firing will be held administratively and criminally liable.
Administrative penalties may include dismissal from the service, forfeiture of benefits, and perpetual disqualification from public office, while criminal charges may be filed under the Revised Penal Code and other applicable laws, depending on the results of the investigation.
Nartatez also reminded police commanders that they will be held accountable for violations committed by their subordinates.
He directed unit heads to immediately relieve and place under preventive suspension any PNP member implicated in indiscriminate firing while investigations are ongoing.
The PNP chief likewise appealed to licensed civilian gun owners to exercise restraint and responsibility, emphasizing proper firearm storage, self-control, and strict compliance with the law.
To strengthen enforcement, the PNP has activated reporting mechanisms, including hotlines and official social media platforms, and urged the public to promptly report indiscriminate firing.
Police units were also instructed to ensure a swift response to verified reports.
“During the season of celebration, everyone’s safety is more important. Let us celebrate Christmas and the New Year safely, peacefully, and without anyone getting hurt,” he said. (With a report from Philippine News Agency)/PN
