Cop faces gun ban violation, illegal possession of firearm

CEBU, Philippines — A police officer assigned at the Regional Personnel Holding Administration Unit (RPHAU)-7 is facing charges before the court for alleged illegal possession of a firearm and for a violation of the Commission on Election (Comelec) gun ban.

Prosecutor II Verna Merelos indicted Police Officer 3 Ritche Saquilabon, 41, a resident of Barangay Buhisan, Cebu City, after finding probable cause.

Saquilabon, during the inquest proceeding, chose not to undergo preliminary investigation to answer the allegation filed against him. Instead, he manifested to face the charges in court.

In his sworn-statement, Police Chief Inspector Jay Goforth said while on duty as officer of the day at Police Regional Office (PRO)-7 on January 29, 2019, he was called to proceed to the grand stand, which is inside the Camp Sergio Osmeña Sr., where a rank inspection was held.

Therein, Saquilabon was allegedly caught in possession and in control of an unlicensed firearm, which was turned over to him.

The 9mm caliber revolver with five live bullets allegedly fell to the ground from Saquilabon’s waistline during the rank inspection.

Goforth said because Saquilabon failed to present documents that would prove that he has a license to possess and/or permit to carry the firearm and ammunition from the Comelec, he was placed under arrest at around 8:45 a.m.

Merelos recommended P100,000 bail for Saquilabon’s temporary liberty for a violation of Republic Act 10591 or Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and P36,000  bail for violation of the Comelec gun ban. (FREEMAN)