The Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 (Central Luzon) on Thursday said it seized 101 firearms and arrested 103 persons from January 12 to 28 for violating the nationwide gun ban.

According to PRO3 Chief Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, among the 103 arrested were 98 civilians, four security guards, and one member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Of the 101 seized firearms, 38 were confiscated at checkpoints, 21 were recovered through police responses, 39 were seized in buy-bust operations, and three from other law enforcement actions.

“This is more than just enforcement —this is about protecting lives and ensuring that every voter feels safe. Every illegal firearm we confiscate is one less threat to public safety," Fajardo said.

Under Section 261 (q) of the Omnibus Election Code of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), 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 No. 7166 further prohibit the bearing, carrying, or transporting of 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 the right to vote.

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

The Philippine National Police reminded motorists that they are required to slow down.

Policemen are expected to conduct a visual search of vehicles at checkpoints to determine whether they are complying with the prohibition on the bearing, carrying, or transportation of firearms and other deadly weapons.

Also, under Comelec Resolution No. 10999, the PNP will conduct checkpoints to enforce the gun ban during the election period from 12 January to 11 June.

The 90-day campaign period for senators and party-list representatives will begin on 11 February and run until 10 May.

Local candidates will be permitted to campaign from 28 March to 10 May.