PNP Imposes Gun Ban, Deploys 2,500 Cops for Bicol's Peñafrancia Festival

LEGAZPI CITY, Albay — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will suspend permits to carry firearms outside residences in Naga City, Camarines Sur, from Sept. 3 to 21, as authorities tighten security for the annual Peñafrancia Festival. Police Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio, Bicol police director, told the Inquirer in a Viber message on Wednesday that the gun ban is part of the intensified security measures for the upcoming religious and cultural event. He also stated that around 2,500 police personnel will be deployed to ensure strict security measures during the festival. The deployment aims to maintain peace and order and ensure the safety of the public, especially with the expected influx of pilgrims and tourists. The Peñafrancia Festival is one of the largest religious festivals in the Philippines, attracting a significant number of attendees and requiring robust security protocols.