By CESAR JOLITO III
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has once again recommended the imposition of a temporary gun ban during the 46th MassKara Festival in October to prevent possible firearms-related incidents.
In a statement relayed to the media, PNP officials said a gun ban would help regulate the carrying of firearms during the festivities — including a proposal to cover holders of permits-to-carry so they would not bring firearms outside their residences while the festival is ongoing.
“Even responsible gun owners, when intoxicated, can be involved in incidents — we’ve seen many cases,” the PNP said in a statement, arguing that the restriction is meant to reduce opportunities for violence.
The PNP also noted that the implementation of the firearms law already targets illegal firearms, and stressed that stronger controls during large public events are intended to keep both residents and visitors safe.
The police recommendation explicitly includes permit holders in its scope “to avoid possible incidents regarding the use of firearms,” the statement said, adding that the measure is a preventive step rather than a punitive one.
However, the city’s chief executive has not yet issued a reply to the recommendation.
“As for the PNP, it is always recommended to implement gun ban … but we will abide by the decision of the local chief executive,” it added.
PNP officials also noted that even if a formal gun ban is not imposed, security can still be maintained.
The police claimed they could deploy more than 1,800 personnel for crowd control and public safety during MassKara should the local government decide against a blanket ban.
The MassKara Festival — one of Bacolod’s largest cultural events — annually draws thousands of spectators and participants to the city’s streets.
Authorities typically weigh crowd-control measures and public-safety protocols in the weeks ahead of the festival, balancing civil liberties with public-safety concerns.
No date has yet been announced for a final decision by city hall./CJ, WDJ