Total gun ban in Iloilo City Jan. 17-23 for Dinagyang festival

A total gun ban went into effect in Iloilo City on Monday for the Dinagyang Festival that will culminate on Sunday. Radio dzBB’s Iloilo affiliate reported on Monday that the Philippine National Police (PNP) will fully enforce the gun ban from January 17 to 23. The police also tightened security in the city as guests are expected to arrive in Iloilo for the festivities. Among the expected guests is presidential sister Ballsy Aquino-Cruz, the report said. During the gun ban, only uniformed police and military personnel who are on duty can bring firearms outside their homes. All Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFORs) will be suspended while the ban is in effect. The police will also set up checkpoints on major roads to enforce the gun ban. A separate report on Visayan Daily Star said Western Visayas police director Chief Superintendent Cipriano Querol Jr. encouraged operators of security agencies to inform their guards to be always in their prescribed uniforms while on duty. Querol also urged merrymakers and devotees of the Santo Niño (Holy Child Jesus) to be conscious about their security and safety against snatchers, pickpockets, and other criminals. 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 activities. – VVP, GMANews.TV