MABALACAT CITY, Pampanga, Philippines — Police officers in various parts of Central Luzon have confiscated 156 firearms since imposing a gun ban on Aug. 28 for the 2023 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
The firearms of various calibers were seized from suspected lawbreakers at checkpoints set up by the Commission on Elections and the Philippine National Police and during anti-illegal drug operations, the chief of the Central Luzon Police Regional Office, Brigadier General Jose Hidalgo Jr., said in a statement on Monday.
Hidalgo said 77 other deadly weapons, including explosives, were also seized in the last 50 days.
He said charges had been filed against those violating the election gun ban.
Carrying firearms, airguns, airsoft guns, gun replica toys, bladed items, and other deadly weapons outside one’s house is prohibited from Aug. 29 to Nov. 29.
Hidalgo requested motorists to cooperate with police officers at checkpoints as he assured them that they would follow proper procedures to protect their rights.
“During the checkpoint, motorists are advised to slow down, dim their headlights turn on their cabin lights, and answer promptly if asked by police authorities. I have also reminded our personnel to be courteous to motorists and to adhere to general guidelines prescribed in our Revised Police Operational Procedures,” he said.