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PCG warns personnel of dismissal, jail over New Year gunfire

Philippines | National

PCG warns personnel of dismissal, jail over New Year gunfire

By Martin Sadongdong

(Courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard)

(Courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard)

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday, Dec. 31, revealed that it has ordered a total ban on celebratory gunfire by its personnel ahead of the New Year revelry.

PCG Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan said the discharge of firearms for celebration is strictly prohibited and violators will face dismissal from service and possible criminal charges.

“The indiscriminate firing of firearms poses a grave threat to public safety and undermines the PCG’s commitment to protecting lives and maintaining order,” PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab said.

A zero tolerance policy on indiscriminate firing will be implemented for all coast guard personnel and erring officers may face administrative and criminal cases, which also include penalties such as loss of benefits and permanent disqualification from holding public office.

She added that offenders may also be charged under Republic Act No. 11926 which penalizes the unlawful discharge of firearms.

The PCG said command responsibility will also apply and unit commanders may face administrative charges if their personnel violate the order.

Cayabyab said firearms are issued only for official duties and lawful self-defense. She warned that using them for celebration puts lives at risk.

The PCG urged the public to report incidents of indiscriminate firing to the nearest PCG unit or law enforcement office.

It noted that public cooperation is key to keeping the New Year celebration safe and peaceful.

A similar warning had been issued by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its personnel.

Related Tags

PCG New Year firearms Ronnie Gil Gavan

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