Comelec to enforce gun ban, checkpoints in Antipolo special election

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will implement a gun ban and checkpoints in eight villages in Antipolo City’s Second Congressional District ahead of the 14 March special election.

The election period will run from 12 February to 29 March and is intended to fill the congressional seat vacated by Rep. Romeo Acop, who died of a heart attack on 20 December 2025.

Under Comelec en banc Resolution No. 11190, the gun ban and checkpoints will apply only to the barangays of Calawis, Cupang, Dalig, Inarawan, San Jose, San Juan, San Luis and San Roque.

The resolution covers the carrying or transport of firearms, deadly weapons, explosives and controlled chemicals; the employment of security personnel or bodyguards; the operation of Comelec checkpoints; and the declaration of election areas of concern or areas under Comelec control within the district.

The poll body said it will begin accepting applications for gun ban exemptions, or Certificates of Authority (CA), from 2 February to 18 March, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding weekends and holidays.

Comelec added that the validity of Certificates of Authority previously issued to law enforcement agencies, diplomatic missions, security agencies, cashiers or disbursing officers, and high-risk individuals during the May 2025 midterm elections will be extended, provided that all licenses and permits remain valid.