Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna has publicly expressed her strong support for the Commission on Elections (Comelec) imposition of a gun ban during the election period, believing that it will significantly reduce crime in the city.

The gun ban will take effect from midnight on Sunday and will run until 11 June.

During this period, the Manila Police District (MPD) and Comelec will conduct random gun ban enforcement operations. Under existing laws, Mayor Lacuna will hold supervisory power over the MPD.

In line with the gun ban, Lacuna has instructed all barangay chairpersons, councilors (kagawads), and barangay tanods to act as force multipliers to assist the police.

This includes ensuring that all CCTV systems within their areas are functioning properly and providing clear footage, as well as ensuring that dash cameras in response vehicles are operational.

Part of the directive to the MPD during the gun ban period includes manning the borders and entry points of the city to prevent criminals from neighboring areas from entering Manila and committing illegal activities. This measure will also help authorities quickly identify and apprehend violators.

“Every major city border road must be closely monitored to prevent criminals from entering Manila and to ensure that anyone caught violating the gun ban cannot escape,” Lacuna emphasized. PAT SANTOS