The Philippine National Police (PNP) will impose a gun ban during President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr’s inauguration in Manila and Vice President-elect Sara Duterte’s in Davao City, a PNP spokesman said Wednesday.
The gun ban in Davao Region will be in place from June 16 to 21 in preparation for Duterte’s inauguration ceremony on June 19 and from June 27 to July 2 in Metro Manila for Marcos’ oath-taking on June 30.
“That [gun ban] is three days before [the event] and two days [after the event] because we have clearing areas…if ever there is an incident that warrants investigation,” De Leon told reporters.
The oathtaking on June 19 will occur at San Pedro Square in Davao City, while the ceremony on June 30 will be at the National Museum in Manila.
“The suspension (gun ban) covers the period of full preparations, deployment, and implementation of the security measures for the oath-taking events of the two highest-ranking officials of the country,” De Leon noted.
“That was our recommendation that was approved (by PNP officer in charge Police Lieutenant General Vicente Danao Jr.),” he added.
When asked if any reported danger caused the gun prohibition, De Leon stated that it is best to remain watchful.
Gun ban in NCR, Davao Region for Marcos, Duterte inauguration – PNP
“We are validating raw information. We do not discount any information that reaches our office. We quickly send them to Directorate of Intelligence for validation,” he said.
“Be that as it may, we are ready for anything,” he added.
Finally, De Leon urged supporters who wished to attend the inaugural festivities to carry compact, clear bags for supplies and advised those who were ill not to come in person.
“The world is watching this historic event, so it is also important to show that we can do this orderly,” he said.
Violations of the PNP order suspending the privilege to carry guns outside the dwelling (PTCFOR) may result in firearm confiscation, cancellation of the PTCFOR, and the filing of charges.
Similarly, De Leon stated that he would obtain the names of all police officers assigned to the entries to establish accountability for any incidents that may occur due to failures.
He stated that at least 3,700 police officers will be called in to secure Duterte’s inauguration, while at least 6,000 will be called in to secure Marcos’ inauguration.
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