PNP imposes nationwide gun ban

The Philippine National Police has suspended the permit to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) nationwide as part of the security measures for the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs) for those running in national and local posts for next year’s elections. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, chief of the PNP, on Friday said the suspension of PTCFOR took effect from midnight of Sept. 30 until 7 a.m. of Oct. 9. “This is to ensure that the filing of COCs from Oct. 1 to Oct. 8 will be free from firearms-related incidents and to ensure the safety of the populace,” he added. Only members of the police and military and other law enforcement agencies on official duty and in their uniforms are allowed to carry firearms. —Dexter Cabalza