Northern samar: A police officer was relieved from his post for using his service firearm as a signal to start a boat race during the town’s fiesta celebration in Northern Samar on August 20, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said on Monday. The incident has raised concerns about adherence to firearm protocols within the force.

According to Philippines News Agency, aside from the officer involved, the chief of police at the Lavezares Municipal Police Station in Northern Samar has also been relieved from his post. In a special order signed by Northern Samar Police Provincial Office Director Col. Sonnie Omengan on August 24, Police Master Sergeant Jimmy Florano was reassigned to the provincial headquarters following the incident.

The PNP stated that the Northern Samar incident is “unacceptable.” Although the act did not result in harm or damage, it constituted a clear deviation from established protocols on firearm use. The PNP emphasized that firearms are issued strictly for legitimate law enforcement operations and must not be used for ceremonial, symbolic, or non-operational purposes without explicit clearance and proper authority.

The PNP leadership urged all personnel to exercise utmost caution, sound judgment, and full compliance with existing rules and regulations. They highlighted that discipline in firearm handling is a measure of professionalism and an essential element in sustaining public trust and confidence in the police service.