Wednesday, April 02, 2008 Speak Out: Arm the tanods By Percival dela Torre
WITH so many loose firearms in the hands of the criminally-minded, most of whom are probably hooked to illegal drugs, there is a great need for barangay tanods to carry firearms while performing their duties, as proposed by the president of Cebu City’s Association of Barangay Councils (Sun. Star Cebu, 20th March 2008). For this purpose, it is imperative that rules and regulations be adopted for strict compliance by the barangays to prevent misuse of such privilege.
The tanods must be given psychological and drug tests to determine that the individual is level-headed and not prone to being overly aggressive, particularly when confronted with serious situations that require presence of mind.
Those who pass the tests shall undergo training in the effective handling and proper maintenance of firearms under the supervision of the Philippine National Police.
For accountability, the barangay’s secretariat should maintain a confidential register showing the following information: (1) name of the barangay tanod (2) age and address (3) caliber and serial numbers of the firearm issued (4) how many bullets issued (5) date the firearms and bullets were released and (6) signature of the tanod acknowledging receipt.
The tanod has to execute a written promissory that he is to carry the firearm only while performing his assigned task and that the firearm is to be kept under lock and key at all times if he is not on duty.
Once every two months, the barangay councilor who heads the committee on peace and order should conduct a physical inventory of the firearms and bullets. Thereafter, a certification shall be submitted to the barangay chairman saying all firearms and bullets have been duly accounted for, and that the firearms are in good working condition.
If there are discrepancies in the firearm’s serial numbers or some bullets are missing, there shall be an investigation by the above committee while the tanod is under suspension. If a firearm is lost due to the negligence of the tanod, he shall be dismissed outright and be made to pay for the gun.
Indeed, the undisciplined and untrained are a menace to the community in general and to the barangay in particular, hence these suggestions.
