Candidates, public warned: Poll gun ban starts Jan. 13

BAGUIO CITY -- The regional police office is reminding candidates in the upcoming May polls and the public to abide by the election gun ban, which will begin today (Jan. 13.)

 "We are urging the different candidates for this coming midterm elections to safe-keep or to surrender their licensed firearms in the police station near them to avoid temptations," said Chief Supt. Rolando Nana, Police Regional Office- Cordillera director, in an interview on Tuesday.

The 6-month election gun ban ends on June 12.

During the period, all license to carry firearms outside residence are suspended. Only members of the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement units who are on duty are issued written permits by the Commission on Elections to carry firearms.

Nana said the Comelec called for a meeting with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders on Jan. 10 to discuss the security preparations for the election period.

Among the topics that will be discussed are regulations for security personnel.

He added that a simultaneous signing of peace covenants will also be conducted on Jan. 13.

 Nana said intensified checkpoints, as well as police visibility, will also be conducted during the campaign and election period.

Earlier, Nana disclosed that the police is closely monitoring the possible resurgence of three private armed groups in Abra province -- one of the areas of concern in the region.

Last week, a shooting incident was reported in Lagayan town between two political groups in Abra which, Nana said, is being investigated. -- Pamela Mariz Geminiano/ PNA