The Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 has officially declared a region-wide firearms prohibition across Central Visayas. This decisive security measure is designed to ensure peaceful and orderly celebrations for the 461st Fiesta Señor and Sinulog Festival, as well as the upcoming high-profile ASEAN Summit.
Two Major Events, Two Phased Bans
To provide clarity for the public, the police have structured the gun ban around the two major events. The suspension for the Sinulog Festival takes effect from 12:01 a.m. on January 8, 2026, until 11:59 p.m. on January 20, 2026. This ban covers the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and Talisay, including the municipalities of Cordova and Consolacion.
Separately, the security measure for the ASEAN Summit will run from 12:01 a.m. on January 15, 2026, until 11:59 p.m. on January 31, 2026. This prohibition will be enforced across the entire Region 7 (Central Visayas).
Strict Regulations and Widespread Cancellations
Acting under the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) directive from the PNP Chief, PRO-7 has temporarily suspended all Permits to Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFOR). The ban comprehensively prohibits:
- The carrying of firearms outside residences.
- The transport of any weapons, explosives, and their components within Central Visayas.
Furthermore, all permits issued to gun club members, licensed dealers, and manufacturers are also temporarily canceled for the duration of the bans.
Exemptions and Massive Police Deployment
During this period, only uniformed and duty-bound personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other law enforcement agencies are authorized to carry firearms.
Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, the chief of PRO-7, explained that the primary goal is to guarantee a smooth and secure environment for the millions of expected devotees, tourists, and foreign delegates. To back this operation, more than 10,000 police officers have already been strategically deployed throughout the region.
This large-scale security preparation underscores the national and regional importance of both the Sinulog Festival and the ASEAN Summit, with public safety as the paramount concern.
