Tanudan moves to ban gunfire at civilian burials to protect lives and keep the peace

Tanudan, Kalinga – Barangay officials in Tanudan shared their recommendations and insights during a public hearing on a proposed ordinance that seeks to prohibit the discharge of firearms during the funeral and burial ceremonies of non-uniformed personnel, a measure aimed at strengthening public safety and preserving peace and order.

The public hearing was held following the Kapehan led by Mayor Jaedicke Rhoss Dagadag on July 13, where several proposed local ordinances were presented before barangay officials, municipal employees, representatives of national government agencies, and other stakeholders. Among them was the proposed Tanudan Anti-Indiscriminate Discharge of Firearms Ordinance of 2026.

Presenting the measure, ABC President Pablo Baliwag said the proposed ordinance would impose penalties on individuals found guilty of indiscriminately firing or discharging firearms during the burial rites of non-uniformed personnel.

He explained that the proposed law aims to promote public safety, maintain peace and order, protect lives and property, and prevent injuries, deaths, and public disturbances resulting from the unlawful discharge of firearms during funeral ceremonies.

The proposed ordinance stemmed from a resolution adopted by the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) during its second-quarter meeting in June, urging the Sangguniang Bayan to enact a law prohibiting ceremonial gunfire during civilian burials.

If approved, the ordinance would prohibit the firing of firearms during the funeral and burial ceremonies of non-uniformed personnel, the discharge of firearms in public or private places during such occasions, the encouragement or participation in ceremonial gunfire, and the possession of firearms intended for ceremonial firing during civilian burial rites.

Following the presentation, barangay officials actively participated in the discussion by raising questions and offering comments and recommendations on the proposed measure.

Vice Mayor Antonio Basungit welcomed the active participation of the village officials, saying their suggestions and concerns had been consolidated and would be considered during the refinement and deliberation of the proposed ordinance before its final approval.