Gun holders in Negros Occidental who will attend the renowned Ati-Atihan and Dinagyang Festivals in Aklan and Iloilo, respectively, should refrain from bringing their firearms, even if they have permits to carry them.

This is because gun ban is being enforced during the Ati-atihan in Kalibo, Aklan from January 12 to 16, and the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City, Jan. 17 to 23, Chief Supt. Cipriano Querol, regional police director of Western Visayas, said.

Querol said the total gun ban suspends the Permit-to-Carry Firearms Outside of Residence and prohibits any member of law enforcement units and of government agencies with government-issued firearms, from carrying guns when they are on off-duty, or while not wearing the prescribed uniforms of their units or agencies.

He also encouraged operators of security agencies to inform their guards to always be in their prescribed uniforms while on-duty, and operate only within their jurisdictional limits when carrying their firearms.

The request for the enforcement of the gun ban by Querol has already been approved by PNP chief Director General Raul Bacalzo.

Querol also called on merrymakers and devotees of Senor Sto.Nino to be cautious about their security and safety, although there are enough police personnel and force multipliers to secure the events from snatchers, pickpockets, among others.

He also advised the public to avoid wearing jewelry, bringing big amounts of cash, or flaunting their mobile phones when joining the merrymaking, or witnessing the events in streets and other venues.

“The only way to avoid becoming a victim of criminals is to deny them the opportunity to commit crimes,” he added.

Querol said he hopes that the enforcement of the total gun ban will protect the celebrations of Ati-Atihan and Dinagyang Festivals from firearms-related incidents, and ensure the safety of the populace and tourists.*GPB

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