LINGAYEN, PANGASINAN - P30 million worth of shotguns are set to be distributed to all barangay chairmen of Pangasinan.
More than 1,300 village heads of Pangasinan were expected to receive the shotguns until the end of this month. Upon the distribution, trainings and seminars were to be conducted.
Pangasinan Gov. Amado Espino Jr., chairman of the provincial peace and order council, said this project could help policemen to minimize and lessen the crime rate.
Some officials of the province however have doubts. They were asking whether the allocation of firearms were necessary for local officials.
“Is there any consultations with other political leaders, civil society or even church leaders?” Pangasinan 4th district Rep. Jose de Venecia Jr. asked.
Alaminos City Mayor Hernani “Nani” Braganza declined to receive the allocation of firearms. The city executive said the province of Pangasinan is peaceful, so there is no reason why they have to arm barangay heads.
Despite the negative impressions of some officials, the circulation of shotguns continues.
Some provincial board members are also set to propose a resolution demanding barangay chairmen to undergo drug and psychiatry test first to resolve the issue.
