Police Corporal Detained After Allegedly Waving Gun in Bar During Birthday Celebration
A police officer's birthday celebration took a drastic turn when he was arrested for reportedly brandishing his firearm inside a bar in Daanbantayan City, Cebu. The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, February 12, 2026, at an establishment located on Malinao Street in Barangay Poblacion.
Details of the Disturbing Incident
The suspect has been identified as Police Corporal Jake Jemar Gulfan, a resident of Barangay Poblacion in Daanbantayan City who is currently assigned to the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO). According to official reports, Gulfan was drinking at the bar to mark his birthday when the commotion erupted around 11:00 PM.
Witnesses stated that the police officer suddenly drew his weapon and pointed it toward the cashier, triggering intense fear among the patrons present. It was further alleged that Gulfan proceeded to twirl the firearm on his finger, an action that escalated the panic and prompted many customers to flee the premises.
Police Response and Arrest
Responding officers from the Daanbantayan Police Station quickly arrived at the scene and successfully disarmed Corporal Gulfan. They confiscated a 9mm pistol that was found without a magazine. Gulfan was subsequently taken into custody and now faces charges of Alarm and Scandal under the Revised Penal Code.
Following his arrest, Gulfan was released on bail on the afternoon of Monday, February 16. However, authorities have confirmed that he will still undergo a thorough internal investigation conducted by his unit at the Mandaue City Police Office to determine any administrative liabilities.
Suspect's Version of Events
In his defense, Corporal Gulfan has strongly denied the allegations that he was intoxicated or acting recklessly. He claimed that he merely stood up when he noticed an argument brewing between his drinking companions and another group at a nearby table.
"I only stood up, but even after identifying myself as a police officer, I was still threatened. I was forced to draw my weapon to defend myself," Gulfan explained. He also refuted the witness accounts of twirling the gun on his finger, insisting that his actions were misinterpreted by those present.
The recovery of the firearm and the conflicting testimonies have added complexity to the case, which remains under active review by both local police and internal affairs investigators.
