Police seal muzzles of firearms for New Year

MANILA, Philippines—Metro Manila police officers are set to seal the muzzles of their firearms as show of commitment to its fight against indiscriminate firing during the New Year revelry next week, its chief, Police Director Leonardo Espina said.

The simultaneous ceremonial tapping of firearms muzzles of Metro Manila police officers will be held at the National Capital Region Police Office Regional Headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig City on Saturday.

“The taping of the muzzle of the gun is neither a form of restriction on the use of the firearm, nor a sign of distrust on the part of police commanders but a show of commitment and resolve against indiscriminate firing,” Espina said.

He said violators, specifically those who will use their firearm outside the call of duty, will be charged administratively for Grave Misconduct and criminally for Illegal Discharge of Firearm.

An inspection and the removal of seals will be conducted after the Three Kings celebration on January 6.

“Once and for all, I am giving a stern warning to all the metro policemen to observe these implementing policies on use of firearm.  Anyone who will violate it will face hard sanctions for sure. Also, I remind all chiefs of police and station commanders that if any of their personnel defy the policies set, they will be liable for their subordinates and will be slapped with appropriate charges as well,” Espina said.

Espina said the same activity will be replicated down to the district and police station levels to ensure that the directive will properly implemented.