PNP, Comelec establish 1,500 checkpoints nationwide for May polls

Nearly 1,500 checkpoints have been established nationwide by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the May 12, 2025 midterm polls.

These checkpoints are crucial for containing criminal elements, saboteurs, and the movement of loose firearms, with the nationwide gun ban beginning on Sunday, January 12.

Authorities have already arrested at least four individuals for violations, including a 31-year-old man in Misamis Oriental for allegedly violating the Comelec gun ban.

Checkpoints are operational around the clock with marked vehicles and clear signage, allowing visual inspections but prohibiting police from opening vehicle trunks or glove compartments.

PNP personnel are deployed to enforce election-related laws, including the firearm ban, throughout the entire election period.

In Northern Mindanao, checkpoints are fully operational to ensure security, with eight local government units in Bukidnon categorized under "Orange" classification due to reports of communist armed group activities and past election-related incidents.

The public is urged to cooperate fully at Comelec checkpoints to ensure smooth travel and community safety, and are encouraged to document operations by taking videos.