Provincial

CENTRAL LUZON TOP COP ORDERS HEIGHTENED FIREARM SECURITY AMONG PERSONNEL

admin June 26, 2026

BY KEVIN GALANG

POLICE Regional Office 3 (PRO3) director Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez has ordered all police personnel in Central Luzon to strengthen the safekeeping and security of their issued firearms following recent firearm-related incidents involving students.

Mendez reiterated that every police officer bears the responsibility of ensuring that government-issued firearms are properly secured, safely stored, and kept beyond the reach of unauthorized individuals at all times.

The Central Luzon top cop issued the directive amid growing concerns over incidents involving firearms.

He underscored the Philippine National Police’s commitment to preventing accidents and misuse of weapons.

“Recent incidents serve as a reminder that every firearm entrusted to a police officer carries a serious responsibility,” Mendez said.

“I have directed all PRO3 personnel to strictly comply with existing policies on the custody, handling, and safekeeping of issued firearms,” he said.

“We must remain vigilant and ensure that these firearms are never left unattended or placed in situations where they may be accessed or misused by unauthorized persons, particularly children,” he added.

Mendez described proper firearm custody as a fundamental duty of every police officer and an essential element in maintaining public trust and ensuring community safety.

To reinforce the directive, the regional chief instructed commanders across Central Luzon to intensify supervision and strictly enforce firearm accountability measures within their respective offices, stations, and units.

He stressed that discipline and accountability should be evident not only during police operations but also in the care and management of government-issued equipment.

Earlier, a 14-year-old student in Tacloban City, Leyte was able to get the firearm of his policewoman-aunt, which he used in the shooting spree at a school in the city, where three fellow students were killed and 20 others were wounded.