The Philippine National Police on Thursday warned the security guards who will be caught firing their guns indiscriminately during Christmas and New Year festivities will be arrested and penalized.

Based on memorandum obtained by the reporters on Thursday which signed by PNP- Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies acting chief Brig. Gen. Gregory Bogñalbal on 11 December, security guards were warned of indiscriminate firing, which has led to serious physical injuries or death due to stray bullets.

The PNP-SOSIA warned them that these acts violate Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and will be punishable with eight to 10 years of imprisonment as stated under the Revised Penal Code.

Moreover, security personnel who violate the memorandum might also face revocation or cancellation of their license to exercise security profession "without prejudice to the filing of a criminal case against them."

Citing police records, the memorandum — which was released on Thursday — said that the warning stemmed from previous cases involving guards causing trouble, commotion, alarm and scandal while using their guns.

Aside from issuing the memorandum, the Firearms and Explosives Office of the police force also began inspecting firecracker stores to prevent the sale of illegal fireworks and ensure public safety.