SENATOR WARNS GUN OWNERS VS INDISCRIMINATE FIRING

SENATOR Nancy Binay warned gun owners, particularly military and police personnel, to act responsibly in welcoming the New Year by not firing their guns indiscriminately.

According to Binay, safety must be at the forefront of the New Year’s Eve celebration.

She called on Filipinos to think of more creative ways to welcome 2024 instead of firing guns, and using fireworks and firecrackers.

“Alalahanin po natin na may karampatang responsibilidad ang pagbitbit natin ng baril. Huwag sana basta-basta gamitin ang mga ito upang maiwasan ang mga casualty lalo pa sa panahon na dapat nagdiriwang ang lahat,” Binay said.

Reports from the Philippine National Police (PNP) showed that at least seven incidents of illegal discharge of firearms have been reported, with one wounded, since December 16.

Of the seven, two were police officers, two were members of the Philippine Army, and another was a civilian. They were arrested and their guns were confiscated. Two others remain unidentified.

The PNP announced earlier this month that it has again skipped sealing the muzzles of service firearms this year, as police officers have been compliant with the directive against indiscriminate firing.

It added that gun sealing also makes responding to crimes difficult.

Binay also urged authorities to strictly monitor vendors selling illegal firecrackers.

She asked the PNP and local government units to strictly enforce Republic Act 7183, which regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.