The Philippine Army (PA) has issued a stern warning to its personnel, stating that sanctions await anyone caught firing their weapons indiscriminately during the upcoming New Year festivities. This announcement comes as the nation prepares for celebrations and authorities work to prevent tragic incidents caused by stray bullets.
Leadership Confident in Troop Professionalism
In an interview on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, PA spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala emphasized that any violations of the directive against celebratory gunfire would be dealt with accordingly. He expressed strong confidence in the discipline of Army personnel, stating they are responsible enough to follow regulations.
"We regard the professionalism of each Army personnel, and they are responsible enough to abide by the directives and regulations on indiscriminate firing," Dema-ala said. He added that there is no need for the extreme measure of muzzling service firearms as a preventive step, relying instead on the troops' sense of duty.
Recent Incidents Highlight Dangers
The warning follows a deadly incident already recorded during the current holiday season. Authorities reported one stray bullet fatality on Christmas Day, where a man in Tondo, Manila, was hit and killed while on a drinking spree.
Furthermore, data from the Philippine National Police (PNP) shows that from December 16 to 26, 2025, seven suspects involved in indiscriminate firing have been arrested. The PNP has also enforced a strict one-strike policy against its own personnel and civilian gun owners who violate gun regulations during the holidays.
Human Rights Commitment Reinforced
This focus on responsible conduct aligns with the Army's recent commemoration of National Human Rights Consciousness Week. On December 1, 2025, senior officers and enlisted personnel at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, recited the "Panata sa Karapatang Pantao" (Pledge to Human Rights) during a flag-raising ceremony.
The Army leadership is explicitly linking this commitment to human rights with the expectation that its soldiers will shun the dangerous practice of indiscriminate firing, which endangers innocent lives. The message is clear: professionalism and respect for human rights must prevail even during times of revelry.
As the New Year approaches, the combined warnings from the Army and the PNP serve as a critical reminder of the lethal consequences of celebratory gunfire and the firm legal actions that will follow such reckless acts.
