1,057 arrested for violating election gun ban since Jan 12

As of February 19, a total of 1,057 individuals have been arrested for violating the election gun ban in effect since January 12.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that among those arrested were six PNP personnel, seven Armed Forces of the Philippines members, five other law enforcement officers, two elected and appointed government officials, one CAFGU Active Auxiliary member, four foreign nationals, two children in conflict with the law, 22 security guards, and 1,006 civilians.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia emphasized the importance of adhering to the election law, including the gun ban, which remains in effect until June 11.

Violators could face imprisonment and disqualification from public office.

The election period began on January 12 for the May 12 midterm national and local elections, with stricter security measures like checkpoints implemented to prevent violence.