Measure to surrender guns to police passed

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Council urged government officials, employees, barangay officials and private individuals who have unprocessed License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF) to inform the police authority so that they will be properly guided.

During the session yesterday, the members of the legislative body approved the proposed resolution of Councilor David Tumulak, City Council’s chairman on public order and safety committee.

“RESOLVED, to urge the government officials, employees, barangay officials and private individuals to inform immediately the police stations near their respective residences if they have unprocessed license to carry firearms,” a portion of the resolution read.

Tumulak drafted the resolution in accordance with his mandate as public official to formulate legislative measures in maintaining a peaceful and orderly city.

He cited Section 2 of the Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act which states that the state shall maintain peace and order to protect the people against violence.

In addition, in order to prevent untoward issues in arresting gun holders who have pending LTOPF application before Philippine National Police Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO).

He said gun holders should abide whatever will be the instructions of the police so that they will not be facing illegal possession of firearms charges.

The Commission on Elections enforced the election gun ban from January 13 to June 12, 2019. On the said period, it is prohibited to bear, carry or transport firearms, explosives or other deadly weapons.

“WHEREAS, gun owners whose License to Own and Possess Firearm (LTOPF) and Permit to Carry Firearm Outside of the Residences that are still on process are advised to refrain from carrying them outside of their homes until such time that the said firearms registration have been approved after COMELEC gun ban,” the resolution further stated.

 Tumulak said it is better that the gun holders will surrender their respective firearms to the authority for safekeeping.

“Mas better if ipa-surrender sa PNP for safe keeping then mangayo lang og receipt ang owner detailing nga naa sa custody sa police ang armas,” he said.  (It is better to surrender their guns to the PNP for safekeeping and just ask for a receipt detailing that the gun is already with the PNP.)

The offices of city councilors, the Association of Barangay Council (ABC), Cebu City Police Office, and other concerned offices were given a copy of the resolution for their information and guidance. — MBG (FREEMAN)