THE PNP is enforcing a six-day gun ban in Metro Manila starting today, Monday, as part of security measures for the June 30 inauguration of President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
PNP Director for Operations Maj. Gen. Valeriano de Leon said they are implementing the gun ban to deter possible plans by “criminal elements and threat groups” to take advantage of the inauguration.
“Our goal is to ensure that these people and groups will be denied any opportunity to strike,” said De Leon, who ordered police commanders in Metro Manila to oversee the strict implementation of the gun ban that will last until July 2.
De Leon said he will personally monitor the implementation of the gun ban to ensure violators will be punished.
“For licensed gun owners who have Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence, we would like to remind them that the privilege of carrying their guns is temporarily suspended,” he said.
Tomorrow, Tuesday, the PNP will also set up checkpoints at all entry points in Metro Manila as part of Task Force Manila Shield.
Danao reiterated that all security preparations, including road closures and traffic rerouting in areas near the inauguration site at the National Museum in Manila, are already in place.
He said these measures will be updated, if the need arises, to ensure the peaceful and orderly oath-taking of the incoming president.
“This is a historic event and we want to make sure that all the security measures are in place because, aside from the Filipino people, the entire world will be watching this significant event in our history,” said De Leon.
De Leon said the PNP has not monitored any serious threats to the inauguration of Marcos.
Nevertheless, he said the PNP is not lowering its guard and will continue monitoring.
PNP spokeswoman Col. Jean Fajardo said around 12,000 to 15,000 policemen will be deployed during inauguration day.
Fajardo said 7,000 cops will be deployed at the vicinity of the National Museum while the rest will be deployed to secure various areas and man checkpoints.
Aside from the policemen, the Armed Forces and the Philippine Coast Guard will also deploy personnel on June 30, according to Fajardo.
Fajardo reiterated her call to protesters not to proceed to the National Museum during the inauguration, adding that protesters should hold their programs in freedom parks.
“They should not attempt to march or get near the National Museum because security forces will not allow them to do so,” said Fajardo.
Police earlier said protests held outside freedom parks during inauguration day will be dispersed.
