“Once proposed ordinance on anti-indiscriminate firing during burials in Tabuk City is approved, violators will face penalties” - Councilor Bon-as

Tabuk City, Kalinga – The discharge of firearms during burial ceremonies in Tabuk City may soon be prohibited following the filing of an ordinance by City Councilor Jayferson Bon-as, which seeks to curb indiscriminate firing during burial rites.

In an interview, the city legislator said he hopes that with the measure people who fire their guns during burials will think twice as their shall be penalties for violators. Additionally, the approval of the proposed ordinance will remove possibilities of getting hit by stray bullets.

“Once proposed ordinance on anti-indiscriminate firing during burials in Tabuk City is approved, violators will face penalties. Addan ton ti paglintegan nga mangibawal kadagita,” said Councilor Bon-as.

The proposed measure, titled the “Anti-Firing Ordinance During Burials in the City of Tabuk,” aims to ensure public safety, maintain peace and order, and prevent harm to persons and property by imposing penalties on individuals who discharge firearms during such occasions.

Under the proposal, unauthorized individuals are prohibited from firing licensed or unlicensed firearms during wakes, processions, or burial ceremonies. Those found in violation may face a fine of P5,000 and will be required to voluntarily surrender the firearm used. They may also face appropriate criminal charges to be filed by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

If the firearm is not voluntarily surrendered, the PNP may apply for a search warrant. Additionally, licensed firearm holders who violate the ordinance may face the revocation of their firearm licenses.

Exempted from the ordinance are official honors rendered during the burial rites of military or uniformed personnel and war veterans, provided that such activities are properly coordinated with local authorities and all safety protocols are strictly observed.

The Philippine National Police, in coordination with barangay officials, tanods, the Public Order and Safety Office, and other concerned agencies, will be responsible for enforcing the ordinance once it is ratified.

The proposed ordinance has already been approved on first reading and is set for second reading.