In a significant move towards ensuring a peaceful electoral process, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) announced that 11 firearms were voluntarily surrendered for safekeeping. This action aligns with the ongoing enforcement of the election gun ban across the region. The announcement was made from the regional headquarters in Legazpi City, Albay.
Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon, the director of PRO-5, highlighted that Camarines Norte led with the highest number of surrendered firearms at five, followed by Naga City and Masbate with two each, and Albay and Catanduanes with one each. Dizon emphasized the critical role of the gun ban in maintaining order and security during elections, noting that the voluntary surrender of weapons and the establishment of checkpoints are key indicators of the effectiveness of these security measures.
Dizon urged the community to continue supporting the police by adhering to the gun ban and reporting any breaches. He stressed that while checkpoints are essential for monitoring compliance and enhancing security, they are conducted under strict guidelines that respect individual rights. Officers are restricted to visual inspections and cannot demand that drivers or passengers leave their vehicles for searches without probable cause.
The election gun ban, which is part of a broader strategy to prevent election-related violence, is enforced under Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 11067. During the first week of the ban, PRO-5 established 1,668 checkpoints throughout the region. The ban, effective from January 12, will continue until June 11, 2025, covering the entire campaign, election, and vote-counting periods.