PNP: Metro Manila gun ban starts Saturday ahead of Sona 2024

Highlights: Sona 2024

Philippine National Police

MANILA, Philippines — A gun ban will only be enforced in Metro Manila starting Saturday in preparation for the third State of the Nation Address (Sona) of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Monday.

“Our chief PNP (Philippine National Police) canceled the effectivity of the permit to carry for three days,” said Metro Manila police chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. in an ambush interview on Friday at Quezon City Police District headquarters during the send-off ceremony of security personnel for the upcoming Sona.

The permit to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) will be suspended in Metro Manila starting at 12:01 a.m. on July 20 (Saturday) until 12:01 a.m. on July 23 (Tuesday), according to the PNP.

Previously, the PNP announced that aside from Metro Manila, the gun ban would also be imposed in Central Luzon and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon).

The PNP said only members of the PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies who are performing official duties and wearing their agency-prescribed uniforms will be allowed to carry firearms.

There will also be a no-fly zone in the House of Representatives where Marcos’ Sona will be held.

The President delivers the Sona annually, usually every last Monday of July, to report the government’s achievements under his or her administration, unveil its agenda, and ask Congress to pass priority measures.

Progressive groups and pro-government demonstrators are also expected to conduct a rally during Marcos’ Sona.