Comelec gun ban starts Jan 12, election period runs to June 11

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban will be in effect from January 12 to June 11, 2025, coinciding with the election period for the 2025 midterm elections.

Carrying firearms in public places is prohibited for everyone, even those with a license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF) or mission orders (MO) from law enforcement agencies, unless they have secured specific authority from the Comelec.

Uniformed police, military, and government law enforcement members on official duty are exempted, provided they have official authorization.

Violators face imprisonment of one to six years, loss of suffrage, and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

The Comelec issued Resolution No. 11067 in September 2024 to enforce the ban, which is stipulated under the Omnibus Election Code and Republic Act No. 7166.

Aggressive operations against loose firearms and private armed groups will complement the gun ban, including checkpoint operations in strategic locations.

The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) has intensified security measures, including checkpoint operations, to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections.