By Martin Sadongdong
Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa has ordered the suspension of all Permits to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) and Permits to Transport and Purchase of Explosives/Explosive Ingredients (PTTPEEI) in Abra due to a series of celebrations starting February 4.
PNP Chief Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa (ALVIN KASIBAN / MANILA BULLETIN)
Chief Supt. Edward Carranza, regional director of the Cordillera Police Regional Office (PRO-COR), said that the banning of the transport of firearms and explosive ingredients is part of their security preparations to ensure the safety and security of all athletes, including local and foreign tourists, who are expected to attend the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) 2018.
The CARAA meet is slated from February 4 to 9 and Dela Rosa has been eyed by local officials to grace the sports event.
Carranza said Dela Rosa signed a memorandum which mandates the suspension of the PTCFOR and PTTPEEI from February 23 to 26 for the Bangued town fiesta. The Cordillera region is also set to celebrate the Kawayan Festival from March 1 to 9.
"Only members of the PNP, AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and other law enforcement agencies (LEAs) who are performing official duties and in agency prescribed uniforms will be allowed to carry firearms," Carranza said.
Carranza further stated that the ban would be implemented immediately in consonance with the enhanced managing police operations and in close coordination with the AFP, other LEAs and LGUs.
The festivities will be celebrated in the wake of a bombing incident that happened during a fiesta in La Paz, Abra on January 25.
Two police officers were killed and 10 others were injured, including Abra Congressman Joseph Bernos and his wife, La Paz Mayor Menchie Bernos.