No ‘spirits,’ deadly weapons allowed in cemeteries – PNP

JUST like in past years, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will not allow liquors and deadly weapons in cemeteries during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days on Nov 1 and 2, 2018, respectively.

Superintendent Joem Malong, Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 spokesperson, said the PNP will ban firearms and deadly weapons and drinking of alcoholic drinks inside cemeteries.

Playing of loud music and gambling will also be banned.

“For those who would be caught with knives and ice picks and liquors, these will be confiscated. These will be returned once the owners get out of the cemeteries,” Malong said.

But it would be a different thing for firearms as the holders will be asked to present valid licenses. Otherwise, they would be arrested and charged for violating Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act).

Persons who will play loud music will be asked to lower the volume or turned off their audio devices.

Gambling inside the cemetery will be dealt with based on existing laws.

Malong said they deployed 4,975 security personnel to different places of convergence, transport terminals (bus stations, seaports and airports), malls, routes resorts and other tourist destinations.

Also, 1,505 PNP personnel will be deployed to 393 cemeteries in the whole region.

The PNP also ordered checkpoints in strategic locations and active security patrols in residential areas to prevent break-ins and burglaries.

Malong said they also prepared for traffic jams on major thoroughfares, which could result in accidents.

Based on the approved deployment plan of PRO6, Road Safety Marshals will be designated in strategic areas and routes to and from cemeteries.

Police Assistance Hubs will be established in coordination with local government units and volunteer groups.

Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) will also be deployed to respond to emergencies.

Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao, Western Visayas police chief, warned the public of criminal and threat groups that may take advantage of the two-day events.

SOURCE: The Daily Guardian

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