76 firearms seized in Region 12 amid gun ban — police
MANILA, Philippines – Police in Region 12 confiscated 76 high-powered firearms since the Commission on Elections (Comelec) enforced a gun ban for the May elections.
Regional Director Brigadier General Eliseo Rasco said Sunday that the firearms were the total haul in the region since January 13, 2019.
Region 12 is comprised of the provinces of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani, and the cities of General Santos City, Cotabato, Koronadal, Tacurong and Kidapawan. It is also called Soccsksargen.
Rasco said firearms were seized during various police operations like checkpoints and the serving of search and arrest warrants.
The police official noted that no election-related violence had been recorded in Region 12.
“We hope that we can sustain this kind of peace and order situation that we are enjoying right now and will continue until the election period concludes” Rasco said
“Rest assured that your Philippine National Police and Armed Forces of the Philippines will do their best to bring peace and order in society. What we only need from the community is full cooperation,” he added.
The biggest number of firearms confiscated was from South Cotabato with 26.
It was followed by Cotabato with 19, Saranggani 11, and General Santos City with 10.
Meanwhile, the Sultan Kudarat Provincial Office recorded nine high-powered firearms confiscated, and Cotabato City Police Office seized one firearm.
The Comelec has enforced a gun ban in coordination with the PNP and AFP to prevent election-related violence and ensure the safety of the public during the campaign and polling period.
Election Day is set for May 13, 2019. /cbb
