Six individuals were arrested and nine firearms were seized by the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 since the implementation of the gun ban on Monday, May 4, 2026.
Gun Ban Duration and Purpose
The gun ban will last until May 11, 2026, as part of strict security measures for the ongoing 48th ASEAN Leaders' Summit. According to data from PRO 7, three firearms were voluntarily surrendered to the police, five were confiscated through police response operations, and one was recovered during a buy-bust operation.
Enforcement and Compliance
This measure is part of the campaign against illegal possession of firearms after the police suspended all Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFOR) during the summit dates. Police Brigadier General Arnold Abad, chief of PRO 7, commended his personnel for strictly enforcing the directive across Cebu Island.
Police Colonel Kimberly Molitas, spokesperson for the ASEAN Summit, stated that the gun ban has significantly contributed to maintaining peace. She clarified that the measure is not intended to deprive legitimate gun holders of their rights but solely for the security of visitors and delegates.
PRO 7 warned that violators of the gun ban will face criminal charges and continues to urge the public to cooperate and respect the rules during this international event.
