Gun replicas seen at Baguio Blooms

THE Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) said that there are replicas of guns in Baguio Blooms of the Panagbenga 2013 which were not supposed to be displayed.

BCPO spokesperson Vergilio Hidalgo said that during the inspection conducted by the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI) last February 19 at the Baguio Blooms at the Burnham Park, imitation of firearms were seen in the said area which were prohibited under the new policies of the Philippine National Police (PNP) as the guns could be used in crimes as fake guns.

The inspection was triggered by several complaints on the poor sanitation, sub–leasing of tents at higher prices, and encroaching and expansion of booth beyond the paid area.

The inspection was led by BFFFI chairman Freddie Alquiros and co-chair Anthony de Leon – who were escorted by the BCPO, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, and the Public Safety and Order Division (POSD) of the City Mayor’s Office.

Hidalgo advised the vendors to remove the replicas from their display and avoid selling it otherwise law enforcers will confiscate the items.

He added police patrollers will continue watching the area every night to ensure the safety of products left in the tents.

Law enforcers also advised vendors to display sharp objects like knives at the center part of their booth not in front to avoid accidents.

Organizers assured the buying public they will conduct a daily inspection at the Baguio Blooms to ensure the implementation of the market’s policies.