Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Despite stern warnings, six policemen have fired their guns indiscriminately as they welcomed the New Year.
Sr. Supt. Dionardo Carlos, spokesperson for the Philippine National Police (PNP), confirmed this on Tuesday, saying all six officers are now facing charges.
Included in the six is PO1 Daniel Castillo, who was caught on cctv joining a drinking spree in Tondo, Manila while he was in uniform. He was also seen dancing with the crowd.
“Kung meron man dyan nagba-violate, that person does not represent the 170,000-thousand strong PNP,” Carlos said.
[Translation: If there are violators, they do not represent the entire PNP organization.]
PNP Chief Ronald dela Rosa did away with the yearly practice of taping the muzzles of policemen’s service firearms. He said he would trust his men to be responsible enough and heed his warning against illegally firing their weapons.
Related: Bato’ gives stern warning vs indiscriminate firing for New Year
Meanwhile, of the 36 total number of indiscriminate firing incidents, 20 suspects have already been arrested — mostly civilians.
The PNP encourages the public to inform authorities about firearm-related violations in the past holiday break.
CNN Philippines’ Gerg Cahiles contributed to this report.
