PNP suspends permits to carry firearms outside residence in Manila

January 8, 2020

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Tuesday announced the suspension of all permits to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) for the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

In a statement, Police Brigadier General Debold Sinas said the suspension was implemented starting 8 am of January 7 up to 8 am of January 10.

The order covers the areas of Manila, especially Quiapo, Sta Cruz and Binondo.

Sinas said the suspension is part of the security preparations to ensure the Feast of the Black Nazarene will be free from firearm-related incidents and to ensure safety of the populace as well as local and foreign tourists.

He said this directive was given by the Philippine National Police Officer-In-Charge, Police Lieutenant General Archie Francisco Gamboa, in consonance with the concept of enhanced managing police operations in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, other law enforcement counterparts and local government units.

"Only members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other law enforcement agencies who are performing official duties and in agency-prescribed uniforms shall be allowed to carry firearms," Sinas said.

"I have absolute faith that this will affect the maintenance of peace and order situation in the concerned areas," he added.

The NCRPO said they have not received any threats in regards to the festivity.  Ella Dionisio/DMS