MANILA, Philippines -- Philippine National Police chief Jesus Verzosa on Friday sought the help of the public in implementing the nationwide gun ban during the election period next year.

In a statement, Verzosa asked private individuals and volunteer groups to report to the police persons carrying firearms without the written consent of the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

He said the implementation of the gun ban was a vital step toward ensuring peaceful and orderly elections in 2010.

?I would like to ask the help of the public ? to report to the nearest police station anyone who is carrying a gun especially in public places during the election period,? Verzosa said.

According to the PNP chief, the Comelec?s order recalling all gun licenses and permits from Jan. 10 to June 9, 2010 also covered policemen, soldiers and other state forces.

Comelec Resolution 8714 strictly prohibits anybody from carrying and transporting guns and other weapons in public areas ?even if these are legally registered and owned.?

Verzosa warned that police personnel found violating the total gun ban would be charged with criminal and administrative cases.

?The PNP, as lead implementor of Resolution 8714 and all other election laws, must maintain the highest standard of credibility by being good and responsible followers of the law,? he said.

?The Comelec?s resolution,? he added, ?is written in simple and easily understandable language that leaves no excuse for any policeman not to be able to understand them.?

He said the rules and regulations of the gun ban will be published in major newspapers by the Comelec?s Education and Information Department.