Election gun ban violation arrests reached 554, Comelec says

The number of election gun ban violators who were arrested by authorities nationwide has reached 554, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said, according to a report by Carlo Mateo on Super Radyo dzBB Saturday.

As of 7 p.m. Friday, there were 521 civilians, 18 security guards, four Armed Forces of the Philippines members, four foreigners, and others nabbed for violating the gun ban in effect since January 12.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said the poll body continues to remind the public to observe the election law, which includes the gun ban.

The election gun ban will be in effect until June 11, 2025.

Garcia said those found violating the election gun ban may face imprisonment and disqualification from public office.

READ: LIST: Details of gun ban during election period

The election period for the May 2025 midterm national and local elections began on January 12.

To prevent election-related violence, stricter security measures were to be enforced, including a gun ban and the establishment of checkpoints.

At checkpoints, only visual inspections are allowed. Police are prohibited from opening a vehicle’s trunk or glove compartment, as well as dismounting or frisking passengers.

The election day is on May 12, but overseas voters may cast their votes from April 13 to May 12, while local absentee voters may cast their votes from April 28 to 30. —KG, GMA Integrated News

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