Police Push to Declare Boracay Gun-Free

By Jennifer P. Rendon

BORACAY ISLAND—The Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 is planning to declare the world-renowned Boracay Island a gun-free zone to enhance peace and security in the area.

Brigadier General Jack Wanky, Western Visayas police chief, said efforts are underway to implement the proposal, which was presented during a recent meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC).

The plan involves multiple phases, including the passage of a local ordinance designating Boracay as a gun-free zone, where the possession or use of firearms would be prohibited.

A team has begun coordinating with local officials to facilitate the proposal’s acceptance.

The timeline for implementation depends on approval from the local government unit (LGU), Wanky said.

The LGU will identify specific areas to be designated as gun-free zones, with recommendations from the local police chief and other enforcers.

Wanky emphasized that he prefers the entire island to be a gun-free zone, noting that Boracay’s one entry-one exit system would simplify enforcement.

Under the proposal, even those with a Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence (PTCFOR) and law enforcement officers would be barred from carrying firearms.

“Even policemen patrolling the area won’t carry guns,” Wanky said.

In case of emergencies, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams would be stationed at strategic locations to respond.

This policy aims to shift the mindset of law enforcers, Wanky explained.

“For too long, our police officers have been accustomed to always carrying firearms, which has contributed to cases of firearm abuse,” he said.

Focus on Non-Lethal Options

Wanky stressed that firearms should be a last resort for law enforcers.

“But the reality is that firearms are often used as the first option. We need to change that mindset. Police officers must be skilled in non-lethal methods,” he said.

To address this, the PRO-6 has been training officers in self-defense and hand-to-hand combat.

Wanky noted that unnecessary firearm use can lead to collateral damage, harming unintended victims.

Despite successful operations against violations of Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, cases of firearm-related crimes such as murder and homicide remain on the rise in Western Visayas.

“We see this as a step to reduce such incidents,” Wanky said.

RA 10591 mandates that police commanders identify gun-free zones, including tourist destinations, places of worship, and commercial areas.

“But these provisions are too general, which is why we came up with this specific plan,” he said.

 

Challenges and Considerations

Wanky acknowledged logistical challenges, such as identifying secure locations for firearm deposits.

There may also be exceptions to the policy that need careful consideration.

“Ultimately, we just want to make Boracay an even more peaceful place for tourists,” Wanky said.

He added that the initiative seeks to create a climate where shooting incidents are exceedingly rare.

“We want to start this change in Boracay,” he said.