PNP, Comelec to discuss Oplan Katok implementation

The Philippine National Police (PNP) plans to meet with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to clarify the implementation of its 'Oplan Katok' initiative, which involves police house visitations to urge gun owners with expired licenses to renew them or surrender unlicensed firearms.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia had appealed to the PNP to postpone the operation during the election period, citing concerns it could be used to intimidate voters and require Comelec approval for all government activities.

However, PNP chief Police Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil stated that 'Revitalized Katok' is a year-round initiative aligned with Republic Act No. 10591 and not intended for political purposes or voter intimidation.

The operations involve police making house visits to deliver formal notices for gun owners to renew their licenses or deposit their guns with the police for safekeeping.