CHECKPOINT. Authorities have seized 233 assorted firearms and deadly weapons in Central Luzon since the start of the election gun ban on Aug. 28, 2023. A total of 156 various firearms and 77 deadly weapons, including explosives, were seized at Commission on Elections checkpoints while 195 individuals were arrested. (File photo courtesy of PRO-3)
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – Over 200 assorted firearms, deadly weapons and explosives were seized in Central Luzon since the start of the implementation of the gun ban on Aug. 28 this year.
The drive is in line with the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on Oct. 30.
In his report on Monday, Brig. Gen. Jose Hidalgo Jr., director of the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3), said a total of 156 various firearms and 77 deadly weapons, including explosives, were confiscated in the region during the conduct of Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints and illegal drug operations, and implementation of search warrants.
Authorities also arrested 195 individuals, he added.
Based on Comelec Resolution No. 10728, the bearing, carrying or transporting of firearms or deadly weapons, is prohibited outside of the residence and in all public places from Aug. 28 to Nov. 29, 2023.
Exempted from the ban are law enforcers but they should have authorization from the Comelec and wear an agency-prescribed uniform while on official duty during the election period.
Violators face imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years, and shall not be subject to probation.
They also face disqualification from holding public office, deprivation of the right of suffrage, and cancellation or perpetual disqualification from securing a gun license.
Meanwhile, Hidalgo urged the public to cooperate with the authorities manning the checkpoints, ensuring that police officers observe policies and procedures and uphold their rights.
“When passing through a checkpoint, motorists are advised to slow down, dim their headlights, turn on their cabin lights, and answer promptly, if asked by police authorities. I have also reminded our personnel to be courteous to motorists and to adhere to general guidelines prescribed in our Revised Police Operational Procedures,” he said in his report. (PNA)
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