By Jennifer P. Rendon
This year, the PNP would still adopt its practice for the past several years of not sealing their personnel’s service firearms’ muzzle.
And why not? “There would be no more muzzle taping for the PNP because we are a disciplined organization and we are accountable for our actions,” Brigadier General Sidney Villaflor, Western Visayas police chief, said a few days before the New Year’s Eve celebration.
Villaflor said the Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 leadership does not see the need to do a muzzle taping since police have been constantly reminded of the consequences of indiscriminately firing their guns.
The region’s top cop vowed to go hard against personnel who commit infractions like indiscriminate firing.
“We will impose the highest penalty to those who will violate,” he said.
Since 2016, PRO-6 has done away with the usual gun muzzle sealing on Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Villaflor also urged the public to be responsible owners of guns to avoid any untoward incident this New Year’s celebration.
Meanwhile, PRO-6 will also deploy substantial police personnel all over the region to ensure a peaceful welcoming of the new year.
They will be stationed in churches, markets, terminals, and other strategic areas in the region.
PRO-6 has also advised the public to be watchful while traveling.
When in crowded places, they must be on the lookout, so as not to give opportunity for criminal elements.
“They should be mindful of their valuable items, especially if they’re in crowded places.