COMELEC checkpoint. Law enforcement officers conduct inspections at a designated checkpoint in Puerto Princesa to enforce the gun ban and ensure security ahead of the May 2025 elections.
Photo courtesy of PPCPO
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The Philippine National Police (PNP) has so far arrested 274 individuals for violating the election gun ban as of 21 January.
In its latest update on Wednesday, the PNP reported that most of those arrested were from Metro Manila (75), followed by Central Luzon (67) and Central Visayas (32).
Among the arrested election gun ban violators are two Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel, two government agency personnel, an appointed government official, 10 security guards, and two foreign nationals.
A total of 279 firearms were seized, including 128 revolvers, 74 pistols, seven explosives, six shotguns, one M15 A2 rifle, and 63 others.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) issued Resolution No. 11067, which prohibits the use of firearms during the election period, effective from 12 January to 11 June, to prevent election-related violence.
Under Section 261 (q) of the Omnibus Election Code, carrying firearms outside of residence or place of business during the election period is prohibited unless authorized by the Commission.
Sections 32 and 33 of Republic Act No. 7166 further restrict the bearing, carrying, or transporting of firearms or 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 ranging from one to six years, as well as permanent disqualification from public office and loss of voting rights.
Foreigners who violate the election gun ban will be deported after serving their prison sentence.
