600 suspected gun ban violators nabbed

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said more than 600 election gun ban violators have been apprehended since January 10.

PNP spokesperson Senior Superintendent Wilben Mayor said the number includes 583 civilians, three police officers, eight government officials, eight security guards, five employees of a law enforcement agency, and two members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit for carrying firearms.

The PNP also seized 478 firearms, 3,421 deadly weapons, 18 grenades, seven other explosives, 12 firearm replicas and 3,384 ammunition.

Police chief Director General Ricardo Marquez said authorities are committed to the enforcement of the gun ban leading to the elections and lasting until June 8.

Based on the Commission on Elections' Resolution 10047 issued on January 28, the incumbent senators and congressmen who are seeking elective posts in the May elections are now exempted from the gun ban.