Metro cops install hotline to report celebratory gunfire

To deter hard-headed policemen, soldiers and civilians from indiscriminately firing their guns during the holidays, Metro Manila police have installed a hotline for the public to report any such incident. Metro Manila police chief Director Nicanor Bartolome said the landline number is aside from the existing text hotlines of the Philippine National Police (PNP). "Citizens can call our headquarters in Bicutan through hotline 8380515," Bartolome said in an interview aired on dzBB. He said concerned citizens can also call the "Isumbong Mo Kay Chief" text line of PNP chief Director General Raul Bacalzo at 0917-8475757. They can also send text messages to the PNP's text hotline at 2920. Bartolome said that in making a report, citizens should include the time and location of the indiscriminate firing incident. Sealing of firearms Bartolome said he plans to seal the firearms of his men anytime before the New Year. The yearly practice involves sealing the muzzles of service firearms with a strip of tape signed by the station, district or regional police director. If the seal is broken, the police personnel to whom the firearm is assigned should submit an explanation. Meanwhile, Bartolome prohibited his men from lighting firecrackers to set an example to their respective communities. "Pinagbawal ko sa pulis natin ang pagpapaputok ng firecrackers, kahit di naka-duty. Mas maganda makita ng kabataan natin di nagpapaputok (I barred my men from lighting firecrackers, even if they are off-duty. It is best that the youth see policemen setting a good example)," he said. — LBG/KBK, GMANews.TV