PNP starts imposition of gun ban nationwide

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police will put up checkpoints to implement the nationwide gun ban for the entire election period from Jan. 9 to June 8.

In a statement on Saturday, Police Col. Roderick Augustus Alba, spokesperson for the PNP, said the checkpoints, manned by the police and military, would conduct weapons check, and operations against loose firearms, deadly weapons, unauthorized security personnel, private armed groups, criminal elements and wanted persons.

These checkpoints may also be located with existing quarantine and border control points in areas on alert level 3 or higher.

Pursuant to Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 10728, the PNP has suspended for the entire election period the validity of all permits to carry firearms outside of residence issued to licensed firearm holders, juridical entities, and members of government law enforcement agencies.

Also suspended were permits issued by the PNP to transport firearms, ammunition, explosives, public firearms display and exhibits, as well as employment of security personnel for VIPs.

As a general rule, only bonafide police, military, and members of government law enforcement agencies in complete uniform and while on official duty are allowed to carry firearms for the entire duration of the election period.

Exemption from the firearms prohibition may be secured from the Comelec committee on Ban on Firearms and Security Concerns.