Comelec asks public to cooperate at checkpoints

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Saturday reminded the public to cooperate with authorities during checkpoints.

In a news forum, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia said checkpoints will be only limited to “plain view.”

“We will follow and respect the rights of the people. We are limited to the 'plain-view doctrine.' No opening, no lowering. Unless you have information, intelligence that says it's necessary to take a good look at the car," Garcia explained in Filipino.

“All those at checkpoints, personnel of law enforcement agencies must be in uniform and know the name of the person there,” he added.

Garcia also reminded the public that the name of the station's commander and their contact number should also be present in the Comelec checkpoint signage so they could complain easily.

"To our compatriots, when you see a checkpoint you should not be afraid but you should be thankful. The checkpoint is guarding the upcoming elections, it should be fine. Let's just participate, there is a little inconvenience to us but it is for our sake," he said.

“As for the authorities, I hope we don't scare our countrymen,” he added.

The implementation of checkpoints and gun ban will begin 12 January.

According to the Philippine National Police, these checkpoints will cover a range of violations, including traffic and election-related offenses.