PNP eyes lifetime gun ban for poll violators

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is considering a lifetime gun ban for election gun ban violators, with PNP chief Gen. Rommel Marbil reviewing the implementing rules and regulations for this stricter penalty.

This consideration follows a March 30 road rage and shooting incident in Antipolo City.

The nationwide gun ban, in effect for the May 12, 2025 midterm elections, began on January 12, 2025, and will remain in effect until June 11.

As of April 1, 2025, the PNP reported 2,105 individuals arrested for violating the election gun ban.

These violators include 2,007 civilians, 11 foreigners, three children in conflict with the law, seven government officials, three elected officials, 36 security guards, 16 PNP personnel, 12 AFP personnel, six from other law enforcement agencies, four CAFGU Active Auxilliary members, and one communist insurgent.

Additionally, 2,198 firearms were confiscated in 1,053 police response operations, and at least 564,383 checkpoint operations have been conducted.

The PNP has validated 12 election-related incidents, with five occurring in the Bangsamoro region.