Manila: Police officers in Negros and Siquijor were reminded on Tuesday to ensure the safekeeping of government-issued firearms to prevent incidents that may endanger lives and undermine public trust in the Philippine National Police (PNP).
According to Philippines News Agency, the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) issued the reminder in the wake of Monday's shooting at the San Jose National High School in Tacloban City that claimed the lives of three students, an incident that involved the unauthorized use of a police service firearm.
In a statement, PRO-NIR Acting Director PBrig. Gen. Romano Cardi±o said strict adherence to firearm safety protocols is essential in preventing accidents, unauthorized use, theft, and other similar incidents. "Every firearm issued to a police officer carries with it a corresponding duty to ensure its security at all times. All government-issued firearms remain under the accountability of the personnel to whom they are entrusted," he added.
Cardi±o directed all unit commanders to reiterate firearm safety measures during regular formations and conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance with the policies governing firearm accountability and security. "We remind our police officers to ensure that their firearms are always properly secured and never left unattended or accessible to unauthorized individuals, including family members, minors, or any person not authorized to possess firearms," the PRO-NIR chief said.
Investigation into the incident showed most of the bullets fired during the attack came from a Glock 9mm service firearm owned by a police officer, who is the aunt of one of the minor suspects. Cardi±o stressed that firearm accountability is not merely a regulatory requirement but a fundamental obligation of every member of the PNP. "The firearm entrusted to a police officer is not only a symbol of authority but a solemn responsibility. Every member of the PNP must ensure that this responsibility is carried out with discipline, professionalism, and utmost regard for public safety," he said.
