The Philippine National Police (PNP) officially launched the nationwide Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints and gun ban on Sunday, marking the start of the five-month-long campaign period.

This also marks the start of heightened security measures to prevent election-related violence ahead of the 2025 midterm elections on 12 May.

PNP Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil said all checkpoints will be operational across key locations nationwide as directed by the Comelec. 

“All checkpoints will be conducted following established protocols, ensuring that individuals’ rights and privacy are respected,” he noted. 

PNP personnel have been deployed to monitor and enforce election-related laws, including the firearm ban, throughout the entire election period.

“We call on the public to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers manning the checkpoints. These measures, including the gun ban, are critical to ensuring peace and order throughout the election period. By working together, we can achieve a secure and orderly electoral process,” Marbil said. He urged the public and the election bets to follow security protocols.

Marbil noted that the authorities at the checkpoints will require motorists to slow down. 

Police officers will conduct visual searches of vehicles at checkpoints to ensure compliance with the prohibition on carrying, bearing, or transporting firearms and other deadly weapons.

Under Section 261 (q) of the Omnibus Election Code, any person is prohibited from carrying firearms outside of their residence or place of business during the election period unless authorized by the Commission.

Sections 32 and 33 of Republic Act 7166 further prohibit the bearing, carrying, or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons in public places, including buildings, streets, parks and vehicles, unless authorized in writing by the Commission.

Violators of the gun ban may face imprisonment from one to six years as well as permanent disqualification from public office and loss of right to vote will be imposed. 

Foreigners who violated the election gun ban will be deported but only after a prison term is served.