Philippine National Police Arrests 971 for Gun Ban Violations Since Election Period Began

Since the start of the election period on January 12, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has apprehended 971 individuals for breaching the gun ban, according to a statement released on Monday. The arrests were detailed by PNP information chief Col. Randulf Tuaño during a press conference at Camp Crame, Quezon City. According to the National Election Monitoring Action Center’s (NEMAC) data up to February 16, the majority of those arrested were civilians, totaling 921. Additionally, the violators included 22 security guards, eight members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and five PNP personnel. The highest number of violations were recorded in Metro Manila with 290 cases, followed by Central Luzon with 149, and Calabarzon with 82. The PNP has set up 254,355 checkpoints in areas designated by the Commission on Elections to enforce the ban. Col. Tuaño emphasized the PNP’s ongoing efforts to control illegal firearms, prevent election-related violence, and maintain peace and order nationwide. These efforts have led to the seizure of 962 firearms through various police operations. The PNP also reported two suspected election-related incidents, one confirmed election-related crime, and 13 non-election-related incidents. Tuaño noted that police often blend in with rally participants to ensure public safety. PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil highlighted the force’s commitment to a peaceful and credible electoral process, stating that intensified operations will continue to enforce the gun ban, neutralize criminal activities, and prevent election disruptions. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could compromise the integrity of the upcoming May 12 midterm elections. Marbil also stressed the PNP’s apolitical stance, ensuring no involvement in partisan activities during the election period. In Central Luzon, the Police Regional Office 3 reported the collection of 260 short firearms from January 10 to February 15 through their ‘Katok’ campaign. Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, head of PRO-3, encouraged firearm holders to surrender unrenewed or loose firearms, emphasizing the importance of compliance for a peaceful electoral process. She assured that all surrendered firearms are properly documented and secured, with assistance provided to firearm holders to meet regulatory requirements.