The Police Regional Office-Davao (PRO-11) will enforce a one-strike policy against police officers who will fire their guns during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

It can be recalled that two individuals were hit by stray bullets, one of whom died later, as residents of the Davao Region welcomed the year 2025.

Because of this, police assured the public that measures are in place to prevent similar incidents as residents welcome 2026.

“Naghangyo mi sa gun owners nga be responsible na para dili ta makadisgrasya. Tutal, naa may laing way of celebrating nga magsaba-saba, kato nalang atong himuon. Dili nata magpabuto og baril,” PRO-11 Spokesperson, Major Catherine Dela Rey, said.

The muzzle of the cops’ firearms will not be taped during the holidays. However, officers caught firing a gun will face sanctions under the one-strike policy.

The commanding officer of the police station where the offending officer belongs will also be relieved for failure to remind and supervise personnel.

“Diha naay one strike policy ang atoang Regional Director nga kung naay PNP personnel nga magpabuto sa ilahang baril unya kung asa siya nabelong nga station, mag-one strike policy ta nga marelieve nuh kay nagfail commanding officer na magremind,” Dela Rey added.

Police officers who discharge their firearms without following police operational procedures may face dismissal from the service.

In 2024, no police officer was recorded to have fired their weapons during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.