Gun ban in Metro Manila lifted after APEC

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP)lifted yesterday the gun ban implemented in Metro Manila for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit.

The gun ban was lifted hours after all the APEC leaders had left the country, Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor, spokesman for the APEC Security Task Force, said.

The PNP suspended all permits to carry firearms outside residence (PTCFOR) from Nov. 16 to 20 to ensure the safety of the APEC leaders and their spouses as well as other foreign dignitaries.

“The suspension of PTCFOR has been lifted,” Mayor told reporters.

Earlier, PNP chief Director General Ricardo Marquez said the gun ban was part of the security measures for the APEC summit.

Only members of the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies performing official duties and in agency-prescribed uniforms were allowed to carry firearms during APEC week, Mayor said.

The task force helped secure the hotels where the APEC delegates stayed and other venues for the event.

Aside from a clash between the protesters and anti-riot police, Mayor said no untoward incident was reported during the country’s hosting of the summit.

“The APEC summit was generally peaceful and successful,” he said.