ISABELA CITY, Basilan — Police and military authorities formally launched the conduct of checkpoints in several strategic areas in the province as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) formally started the enforcement of a total gun ban on Sunday, the start of the election period for this year’s midterm polls.

101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade commander Brigadier General Alvin Luzon and Colonel Frederick M. Sales, Deputy Brigade Commander, personally inspected the readiness of military and police checkpoints around the province at 12:30 a.m. on Sunday.

The surprise inspection of checkpoints in this province was conducted in close collaboration with Basilan Police Provincial Director Police Colonel Cerrazid A. Umabong.

According to Luzon, strategic checkpoints have been established across the province, including key locations such as the Border Control Point in Barangay Balagtasan, Lamitan City, and Barangay Baluno, Isabela City.

By working hand in hand, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police and the Comelec aim to promote a secure and peaceful Basilan during the campaign period until election day, Luzon added.

“The success of this election security operation depends on the collective discipline, vigilance, and commitment of every soldier and police officer, as well as the support of all peace-loving Basileños,” the military commander in the province said.

“Together, we aim not only to safeguard this electoral process but also to strengthen the trust and cooperation between our institutions and the people of Basilan,” he added.

Additionally, he said, “Our mission embodies service to the people, valor in every challenge, and integrity in every action.”

Establishing these checkpoints and the strict enforcement of the Comelec gun ban are critical measures to prevent election-related violence and ensure the safety of voters across the province.

Meanwhile, in Zamboanga City, the Zamboanga City Police Office has started conducting Comelec checkpoints at strategic locations throughout the city.

The operation kick-off was at 8 a.m. on Sunday, which is in alignment with the implementation of the nationwide gun ban.

The establishment of these checkpoints is a proactive measure to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the upcoming elections, the city police said.

Law enforcement and military personnel will be on-site to inspect vehicles and conduct routine searches.

Residents are urged to cooperate with authorities and comply with all security measures to facilitate the smooth operation of the checkpoints.