Cebu City—The Philippine National Police has imposed a gun ban in the entire city and province of Cebu starting today (Monday) until Jan. 18 as part of security measures for the Sinulog festival and the Ms. Universe pageant’s swimwear competition.
PNP chief Dir. Gen. Ronald Dela Rosa said gun owners are prohibited from carrying firearms outside of their homes.
Dela Rosa’s order was posted by Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak, deputy mayor on police matters, on his Facebook account.
“Only members of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies who are performing official duties and in agency-prescribed uniforms will be allowed to carry firearms,” he said.
Civilians, off-duty cops, military personnel, and security personnel who will be found carrying guns outside their houses will be arrested for illegal possession of firearms.
Police Regional Office director Chief Supt Noli Talino, earlier requested Dela Rosa to allow a special gun ban during the Fiesta Señor celebration, the feast of the Sto. Niño de Cebu and the Sinulog grand parade.
The gun ban period was extended after a decision was made for the the Ms. Universe swimwear competition to be held in Lapu-lapu City on Jan. 17.