As the election gun ban takes effect on January 12, the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPO) has ramped up efforts to recover and regulate loose firearms across the province.

From January 1 to January 7, 2025, authorities reported 826 loose firearms, including 147 confiscated, 117 recovered, 371 voluntarily surrendered, and 191 deposited.

“Para masiguro natin o matiyak natin ‘yung kaligtasan ng ating mamamayan... may mga unscrupulous individuals na pwedeng manabutahi dito sa eleksyon na gamitin ‘yung baril para magkagulo lang,” Provincial Director PCOL. Rollyfer Capoquian said.

The police reminded the public of the severe penalties for violating the gun ban, which include imprisonment of one to six years, disqualification from public office, and loss of voting rights.

Foreign nationals caught violating the ban face deportation after serving their prison terms.

Only high-ranking officials, such as the President, Vice President, and Chief Justice, are exempt from the ban.

Others must secure a Certificate of Authority from the Philippine National Police (PNP) if they require firearms for valid reasons, like business or personal security.

Capoquian also announced the implementation of a two-strike policy for police chiefs who fail to solve cases within their areas of responsibility.

“Once na kapag sunod-sunod ang shooting incident at hindi na-solve ‘yun within a month, kaagad nating nire-relieve ang hepe ng nasabing bayan,” he said.

With stricter policies and proactive measures, the Pangasinan PPO aims to prevent election-related violence and ensure peace and order in the province.