PNP tightens security at checkpoints

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it will implement stricter Comelec checkpoints following a road altercation that resulted in a fatal shooting in Antipolo City.

In a radio interview, PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said more personnel from the Highway Patrol Group will be stationed at Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints. 

Following the most recent road rage incident, many cops were already manning at the border of Antipolo City and Marikina City. 

The PNP has heightened security implementation to prevent election-related violence for the 2025 midterms poll on 12 May.

Marbil said PNP personnel have been deployed to monitor and enforce election-related laws, including the ban on firearms throughout the election period. 

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

The Comelec checkpoints and gun ban will run until 11 June.

A total of 2,056 individuals have been arrested for violating the election gun ban. A total of 2,147 firearms have been seized as of this present. 

On Tuesday, Marbil declared a stricter imposition of penalties against those who would irresponsibly use their firearms. 

He then proposed the “perpetual disqualification” of those involved in gun-related offenses from renewing a License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF) and firearm registration.

The PNP chief also recommended the revocation of their existing LTOPF and firearm registration “to ensure that those who have demonstrated reckless behavior will no longer be allowed to legally own firearms.”

“Gun ownership is a privilege, not a right, and those who abuse this privilege by endangering others will face the full force of the law,” Marbil stressed. 

Marbil noted responsible gun ownership can reduce the risks of violence, enhance public safety, and foster a more secure environment for everyone.

“Whether during the election period or not, we must all uphold responsible firearm ownership to prevent senseless violence,” he said. 

The road rage incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, 30 March, along the busy Marcos Highway in Antipolo City. The situation escalated into a shooting, resulting in four people being injured, including the shooter’s partner.

Later in the afternoon the 28-year-old shooter, identified as Ken, was arrested by the Antipolo Police. He may face complaints of murder and multiple frustrated murders.