Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan ordered the temporary suspension of a firing range at the Naval Forces Central (Navforcen) base following three reports of stray bullets in Barangay Canjulao during June 2026. The suspension took effect on Monday, June 29, 2026, after a dialogue among Navforcen officials, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and barangay officials.
Stray Bullet Incidents Prompt Action
According to earlier reports from Balitang Bisdak, the first incident occurred on June 2 when a 9mm bullet landed on the roof of a house in Purok Caimito. A second incident on June 11 involved a .45-pistol bullet that struck a home’s window, wall, and cabinet. The third incident was reported on June 22 in Purok Atis, where a 9mm bullet hit the wall of a house.
Canjulao Barangay Captain Nestor Paypa said they inspected the area on June 22 after receiving complaints from residents and found what they believed was an operational firing range inside the Navforcen camp, as posted by the City Information Office (CIO).
Navforcen Agrees to Suspension
Navforcen officials agreed to suspend operations until the facility complies with PNP registration and accreditation requirements under Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and implements additional safety measures to protect nearby residents. Chan said during a media interview on Tuesday, June 30 that Navforcen committed to adding safety measures, including increasing the height of the firing range barrier or perimeter to reduce the risk of stray bullets reaching nearby communities.
“The safety of the public is our priority. I do not want any resident to get hurt,” Chan said in a mix of Cebuano and English.
Inspection and Compliance Ordered
Chan directed the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office to conduct an ocular inspection of the facility and instructed the Business Permits and Licensing Office to verify its permits and registration. Regional Civil Security Unit 7 Director Col. Elmer Cinco said all firing ranges, including those inside government facilities, must be registered with the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office under RA 10591. Cinco noted that the firing range has a standard 12-foot backstop and faces a mangrove area, but additional safety measures will depend on inspection recommendations.
Chan said the suspension will remain until the facility complies with the required regulations. Barangay officials will recommend assistance for households whose properties were damaged by the stray bullets.
