The Lapu-Lapu City government has ordered stricter enforcement against indiscriminate firing of firearms during New Year celebrations after a reported stray bullet incident last Christmas.
Mayor Cindi King-Chan warned that individuals caught firing guns will face severe penalties, stressing that the city will not tolerate reckless actions that endanger lives.
The warning follows a report from a netizen whose home was hit by a stray bullet during Christmas. Fortunately, no one in the household was hurt.
“Salamat sa Ginoo nga wala ray intawoy miembro sa ilang pamilya nga naunsa, pero dakong sayop gyud ang nagpasalba og armas o kung kinsa man gani ang tinubdan sa maong saag nga bala,” King-Chan said.
Police records show the incident occurred at around 7 p.m. on December 25, 2025, when a stray bullet struck a house and office in Sitio White Fox, Barangay Marigondon.
The bullet was allegedly fired by an unidentified person from an unknown direction.
Authorities immediately responded, assessed the scene, interviewed residents, and launched casing and surveillance operations. The investigation is ongoing to identify those responsible.
King-Chan emphasized that firing a gun, whether intentional or reckless, is a serious offense with legal penalties.
“Dakong silot ang nagpaabot sa masakpan nga magpasalba og armas sa Bag-ong Tuig,” she said, adding that police have been directed to intensify monitoring and enforcement during the holidays.
She said the city’s decision reflects its commitment to public safety, especially during festive occasions when risks are higher.
“Dili ta mosugot nga aduna intawoy kinabuhi nga mabutang sa alanganin tungod lang sa pag-gara-gara ug ginadiling paggamit og armas,” King-Chan said, urging residents to celebrate responsibly.
The mayor reiterated her appeal to the public to welcome the New Year without resorting to illegal firearms, noting safer ways to celebrate that do not put innocent lives at risk. (VCL)
Photo from King-Chan’s Facebook
