By Jennifer P. Rendon
A one-month gun ban has been imposed throughout Guimaras province in connection with the 2024 Manggahan Festival and the 32nd anniversary of the province’s establishment.
The suspension of all permits to transport and carry firearms outside residences began at 12:01 a.m. on May 1 and will continue until 11:59 p.m. on May 31, 2024.
Col. Rhea Santos, Guimaras police chief, stated the order was detailed in a memorandum from PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, issued on April 30, 2024. Santos’ office received the memorandum over the recent weekend.
The gun ban initiative, requested by Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, Western Visayas police chief, followed a letter from Gov. JC Rahman A. Nava.
Originally, local authorities and the Guimaras Police Provincial Office sought to suspend the permits only from May 3 to 22, covering the festival activities.
However, PNP higher headquarters extended this to a month-long firearms ban.
During this period, only members of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies performing official duties in agency-prescribed uniforms are allowed to carry firearms, ensuring a firearm-free event for public safety.
As of now, Santos reported that there have been no arrests for violations of the gun ban.
