Comelec to impose election gun ban starting Jan. 13

MANILA, Philippines - A six-month election gun ban will be enforced starting Jan. 13.

Commission on Elections Resolution 9385 provides that bearing, carrying and transporting firearms and other deadly weapons are prohibited unless authorized in writing by the Comelec.

Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr. said the PNP has long prepared for the Comelec-imposed election gun ban.

Cerbo said checkpoints would be set up in strategic areas to ensure the strict implementation of the gun ban. He said the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are in close coordination with the Comelec.

With the gun ban, Cerbo said all permits to carry firearms outside residence issued by the PNP to civilian gun holders are suspended.

Only law enforcers on duty and in full uniform are allowed to carry firearms outside residence, he added.

Meanwhile, the Comelec said suspension of elective local officials is also banned during the election period.

Transfer or movement of government officials and the use of security personnel and bodyguards by candidates are also prohibited under the Comelec resolution. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe