Metro checkpoints in place amid start of poll period
Members of the Philippine National Police have set up checkpoints along the Kartilya ng Katipunan in Manila on Sunday as the election period has kicked off following the announcement of the Commission on Elections.
Photograph by John Carlo Magallon for the daily tribune
The Southern Police District (SPD) and the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) have implemented Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints as the election period officially began Sunday.
The gun ban, which prohibits the carrying of firearms and other deadly weapons in public places, will be in effect from 12 January to 11 June 2025 as the SPD urged the community to fully cooperate with law enforcement officers to ensure a safe and orderly election process.
“During the election period, no person shall bear, carry or transport firearms or other deadly weapons in public places, including any building, street, park, private vehicle or public conveyance, even if licensed to possess or carry the same, unless authorized in writing by the Commission,” the Comelec said.
Violators of the gun ban face penalties of imprisonment from one to six years, permanent disqualification from public office and loss of the right to vote, and deportation for foreigners after the prison term is served.
The SPD has jurisdiction over the cities of Muntinlupa, Taguig, Makati, Pasay, Las Piñas and Parañaque, and the municipality of Pateros.
In Muntinlupa City, checkpoints have been established at key locations, including in front of the South Park Center in Alabang, Pedro Diaz Street corner Amparo Street in Barangay Poblacion, Manuel L. Quezon Road in Barangay Sucat, and Alabang-Zapote Road in Barangay Alabang.
“The checkpoints are to prevent unlawful activities, ensure fair elections, and promote peace and order,” the Muntinlupa Police said.
In Quezon City, 33 checkpoints have been strategically established across the city to ensure security and compliance with election-related regulations during the election period.
QCPD acting director Col. Melecio Buslig Jr. inspected various checkpoint locations, including Elliptical Road corner Kalayaan Avenue, LRT Anonas Station and Welcome Rotonda in Barangay Don Manuel.
Buslig directed his officers to bolster security and anti-criminality measures. He also urged the public to cooperate fully with authorities.