City recalls guns from ex-chieftains

CEBU, Philippines - The General Services Office of the Cebu City government has started recalling the handguns issued to defeated barangay captains so that the new officials may have them.

The city government issued guns to barangay captains and some City Hall employees for their protection. The mayor has the discretion over the issuance depending on the gravity of the need to have arms as a tool for defense in their operations.

Armaments as well as other equipment and supplies issued by the city to barangays with new captains must be returned to City Hall through the GSO for proper documentation.

The GSO will then issue it back to the barangay under the new administration but only if the previous administration was able to account for all the equipment and supplies.

Prior to the turnover, the GSO conducts its own inventory, which is still ongoing in some barangays.

GSO chief Rolly Ardoza said that so far, all barangays that changed administration were able to account for all supplies that the city issued to help them in the delivery of services to their constituents.

Guns were also properly turned over and ready for release to new barangay captains who have undergone firearms proficiency training.

Ardoza said that the GSO has already sponsored two batches of trainees and will conduct more next year for those who are interested. The training teaches individuals how to properly use and handle weapons.

Starting next year, Ardoza said Mayor Michael Rama will no longer approve requests for issuance of weapons if the applicant will not be able to present a certificate proving he or she attended a seminar on gun safety and responsible ownership.

Aside from the barangay captains, other City Hall employees who were issued arms include department heads, councilors and bodyguards.

There are over 100 guns now secured at the safety vault of the GSO excluding those still in the possession of city employees. Over half of the guns are said to be old after being unused for more than 20 years already.

Ardoza said because the guns are old some officials are unwilling to take them. He, however, said these are still functional and may be used for emergencies. — (FREEMAN)