Comelec gun ban starts on Sunday

The implementation of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban will begin on Sunday, January 9.

Simultaneous checkpoints will be set up in Bacolod City and the rest of Negros Occidental.

Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) spokesperson Police Lt. Abegael Donasco said that NOCPPO director Police Col. Romy Palgue ordered all police chiefs in the province to install checkpoints in their respective areas of responsibility and to make sure that they are following the guidelines of the Comelec.

Donasco said they have already recalled all cops who have been serving as police escorts of local politicians in accordance with the rules and regulations set by Comelec.

Donasco also reminded civilians who want to be exempted from the gun ban to immediately coordinate and apply for an exemption with the Comelec, after which they will undergo validation with Philippine National Police (PNP) to find out if their reason is valid.

Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) spokesperson Police Lt. Liberty Indiape, meanwhile reminded the public, especially those holding a firearms license that it would be illegal to carry guns outside of their homes effective 12:01 a.m. of January 9 until the end of the election period on June 8.

Checkpoints will be installed in strategic areas of the city.

Anyone caught carrying a firearm will be charged with violating the Comelec resolution on the gunban as well as additional charges related to RA 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms.

During the gun ban, only uniformed personnel from PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and other law enforcement agencies are allowed to carry firearms during the Comelec gunban period.* (DGB)