THE gun ban and no sail zone along Panglao island seawater are being enforced starting January 15 – February 01, 2026, during which the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit will be held here at Panglao as one of the hosts, police said.
Report said that Regional Director PBGEN Redrico A Maranan thru provincial director Col Patricio Degay ordered that the gun ban be strictly enforced across Central Visayas until January 31 to cover both Sinulog and the ASEAN Summit. Checkpoints, Oplan Sita operations have been mounted apparently to heighten police visibility.
PNP reminded those with firearms, even licensed, not to bring them outside even as it will strictly enforce the gun ban to maintain public safety.
The Philippine Coast Guard has issued an advisory to all mariners, vessel operators, and stakeholders, informing them for a strict no sail zone within the vicinity waters off Panglao, Bohol, effective January 16 to February 01, 2026 in support of the ASEAN Summit 2026.
“In view thereof, all ships/watercrafts transiting within the abovementioned area are advised to take note of the information and to take necessary or extra precautionary measures at all times.”
“Bohol is fully prepared for the ASEAN Summit in Panglao, Bohol. Full-scale simulation exercises conducted over the weekend tested security readiness,” police said.
With some 1,717 personnel mobilized, plus augmentation from other city and provincial offices, BPPO “is confident in securing delegates and visitors.”
Vice-Gov. Nick Besas, representing Gov. Aris Aumentado led the send-off rites of 1,717 security personnel held at Panglao public Plaza on Jan. 4. As part of the preparation of the ASEAN summit.
Aside from the PNP thru BPPO, the reinforced forces include Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), and other force multipliers. Also included in the preparations are the provisions of patrol and high-speed response vessels, armored vehicles, fire trucks, ambulance units, rescue vehicles, and other logistical transport units.
“We will ensure ASEAN delegates and visitors [to] depart Bohol with a lasting positive impression-one that embodies the warmth of the Filipino people and reflects the shared values of ASEAN solidarity,” according to Degay.
Aside from Bohol, Manila, Cebu, Boracay, Laoag, Iloilo, Tagaytay, and Clark play host locations of various ASEAN meetings.
Gov. Aumentado earlier said that Bohol has done all preparations needed for the ASEAN summit, not only for safety and security, but also to showcase Boholano culture in hospitality to the senior ASEAN officials and visitors. (RVO w/PIA)
