Rector Fr. Rico John Bilangel, C.Ss.R. says no shooting occurred inside the shrine, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could cause fear and confusion.
An intoxicated man carrying a loaded unlicensed firearm caused a commotion inside the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help in Baclaran, Parañaque City, after he allegedly punched a security guard who tried to escort him out Sunday afternoon, Aug. 30.
The 30-year-old suspect, identified by police as "Jenevie," a helper and resident of Imus, Cavite, was arrested at around 5:15 p.m. by personnel of the Baclaran Police Sub-Station.
The incident occurred at the church compound along Redemptorist Road in Barangay Baclaran.
Initial police investigation showed that a security guard approached Jenevie after noticing his suspicious behavior and apparent intoxication.
When the guard attempted to escort him out of the church, the suspect allegedly punched him, triggering an altercation.
Several churchgoers intervened and helped restrain the suspect until responding police officers arrived.
Police said they recovered a .38-caliber “paltik” revolver loaded with one live round from Jenevie during the arrest.
He was taken into police custody as authorities prepared charges for alleged violations of Article 155 of the Revised Penal Code (Alarm and Scandal), Article 151 (Disobedience to an Agent of a Person in Authority), and Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Meanwhile, the church clarified that no shooting occurred inside the shrine, contrary to reports circulating.
National Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Rector Fr. Rico John Bilangel, C.Ss.R., said security personnel and police immediately responded to the commotion.
Bilangel said two persons were injured in the incident and were promptly given first aid.
He appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary fear and confusion among devotees and churchgoers.
The rector assured the public that the safety and security of devotees remain the shrine’s top priority.