Metro Manila cops on alert vs indiscriminate firing of guns

MANILA, Philippines — Police Director Oscar Albayalde, National Capital Region Police Office chief, on Tuesday told his officers to aim for zero cases of indiscriminate firing as the capital prepares to meet the new year.

Albayalde also promised intensified police visibility in the next few days of the holiday season. "We will even double our effort to maintain peace and order as we also aim for zero-indiscriminate firing, this is a no-no for our personnel," the NCRPO chief said.

Some people insist on welcoming in the new year by firing guns in the air, an outdated and dangerous practice that has caused deaths in previous years. Last year, four people were hit by stray bullets in Metro Manila. One of them died.

Albayalde warned that police personnel who violate an order against the indiscriminate firing of guns face sanctions.

Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, PNP chief, has again decided to forego the traditional taping of gun muzzles over the holiday season.

The taping of gun muzzles used to be done to make it easier to determine whether a gun was fired over the holidays.

Use of firecrackers discouraged

The NCRPO chief also urged the public to forego the use of firecrackers to celebrate the new year.

Albayalde said that the NCRPO is currently working with local government units and other government agencies to select designated areas for fireworks.

"Let us make sure no child will lose a finger. This season is supposed to be for them to enjoy," Albaylde said.

He added that the metro cops will be on duty 24 hours to "ensure the safety and security of everyone."

Earlier this year, President Rodrigo Duterte signed an executive order regulating the use of firecrackers.

Under Executive Order 28, the use of certain pyrotechnics will be restricted to community displays and only for special occasions. Community fireworks displays can only be done under the supervision of a trained person licensed by the Philippine National Police.