BY JEN BAYLON
ILOILO City – A 48-year-old man was apprehended by personnel of the Iloilo City Police Station 5 for violating the gun ban implemented throughout the Dinagyang Festival 2024 celebrations.
Alias “Bibong,” a resident of Barangay Balucuan, Sigma, Capiz, was caught carrying a firearm in a shopping mall in Barangay Bolilao, Mandurriao District.
The discovery of the contraband placed inside a sling bag was made by a barangay tanod conducting frisking around 4:35 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 27.
Upon verification, the police recovered a .45 caliber pistol with one inserted magazine and seven live ammunition, as well as one extra magazine containing seven more live ammunition.
“Bibong” was then informed of his constitutional rights and brought to the police station for proper disposition.
The recovered evidence was turned over to the station’s evidence custodian for further verification and examination.
In line with the Dinagyang Festival celebration of Dinagyang Festival 2024, a 10-day gun ban was in place throughout Iloilo City.
Per the memorandum signed by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr., permits to transport and carry firearms outside of residence are suspended from 12:01 a.m. of Jan. 19 until 12:01 a.m. of Jan. 29.
Only members of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies performing official duties and wearing agency-prescribed uniforms are allowed to carry firearms. Additionally, carrying sharp objects, deadly weapons, and other contraband is prohibited.
The strict enforcement of the gun ban aimed to ensure a secure and harmonious celebration during the festival.
“Let this incident serve as a lesson for everyone. The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) is committed to maintaining a firearm-free environment during the Dinagyang Festival. Let us come together in peace and respect the safety measures for a secure and enjoyable celebration while honoring Señor Santo Niño,” said Colonel Joeresty Coronica, director of the ICPO and commander of Dinagyang 2024 Site Task Group./PN
