As election period kicks off, Metro top cop wants more checkpoints

DOUBLE your checkpoints.

This was the directive of National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Joel Pagdilao to district directors and station commanders in Metro Manila.

Pagdilao issued the directive last week, two days after the election campaign period kicked off for candidates running for national posts.

He said that the checkpoints—which were first set up under the supervision of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Jan. 10—were helpful in the implementation of the election gun ban as specified in the Omnibus Election Code.

Pagdilao reiterated that during the gun ban period from Jan. 10 to June 8, only authorized personnel like the military and other security government agencies were allowed to carry firearms but under certain conditions.

He said that even police officers were not allowed to carry guns unless they were on duty and in uniform.

“[The fact is] the NCRPO to date [has] recorded a total of 196 arrested persons (in) 1,700 checkpoints day and night,” Pagdilao said, without specifying the offenses of those apprehended.

In putting up the additional checkpoints, Pagdilao reminded his men to “rigorously” observe the guidelines set by the Comelec .

For one, the checkpoints should be located in well-lit areas to let motorists clearly see the policemen on duty, he said.

He added that those manning the checkpoints should be in proper uniform.

“The police are asking for the cooperation of the public during this time so we can ensure a safe period during the elections,” Pagdilao said.