Enlisted men using firearms in New Year face dismissal

MANILA, Philippines - Enlisted personnel of the Philippine Air Force may be discharged once caught using their service firearms during the New Year's Day revelry.

Air Forces spokesman Col. Miguel Ernesto Okol on Monday said that officers proven to violate rules against the indiscriminate use of weapons will face severe penalties.

"Enlisted men caught and found guilty of firing their service weapons are immediately discharged from the service while officers will be court martialed," Okol said.

All service weapons issued to personnel of the Air Force are now muzzled to ensure that they cooperate in peace and security during the yearly merry-making activities.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also issued warnings against its men who will illegally discharge their firearms during the revelry.

PCG commander Rear Admiral Rodolfo Isorena told ranks within the coast guard stations, sub-stations, major and support unit personnel to strictly observe the directive.

"The PCG is a professional organization and should continue to observe its commitment to the rule of law. Personnel who will violate the directive will be dealt with both criminal and administrative charges," Isorena said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines also seconded the admonition.

Security guards around the country, meanwhile, also saw their firearms muzzled in light of the coming festivities.

PNP Supervising Office for Secutiry Agencies Enforcement Management Section Chief Sir. Supt. Dominador Tugon said in a radio report that the gun muzzles can only be taken off by January 3.

There are around 550,000 security personnel, half of whom carry firearms.