Comelec enforces gun ban ahead of Palawan plebiscite

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections is set to implement an election gun ban in Palawan ahead of a plebiscite that will ratify a law dividing the province into three.

“Starting from February 11, 2021 to March 20, 2021, gun ban will be implemented for the province of Palawan,” Comelec Deputy Executive Director for Operations Teopisto Elnas said Thursday in a virtual press briefing.

The gun ban was in accordance with Comelec Resolution no. 10691 promulgated on February 3 and signed by its members led by Comelec chair Sheriff Abas. The ban includes the transport of firearms, ammunition, and raw materials in the manufacture of firearms and explosives.

“Only regular members of the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies of the Government who are duly deputized in writing by the Commission for election duty may be authorized to carry and possess firearms during the election period: Provided, That, when in the possession of firearms, the deputized law enforcement officer must be: (a) in full uniform showing clearly and legibly his name, rank and serial number, which shall remain visible at all times, and (b) in the actual performance of his election duty in the specific area designated by the Commission,” the resolution read.

The commission added that it has promulgated the Comelec Resolution no. 10694, which mandates the establishment of checkpoints.

The Comelec is scheduled to hold the plebiscite in 23 municipalities of Palawan on March 13 to ratify the Republic Act No. 11259 which aims to divide the province into Palawan del Norte, Palawan Oriental, and Palawan del Sur.

The law was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte last April 5, 2019. The plebiscite was originally planned to be held in May last year but was suspended by the Comelec due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

EDV