PNP arrests 1,023 under Comelec gun ban; most violators are civilians

As of February 18, 2025, a total of 1,023 individuals have been arrested under the Comelec gun ban implemented since January 12, including five PNP personnel and seven Armed Forces of the Philippines personnel.

From February 11 to February 16, 88 arrests were made, accounting for about 9% of total arrests; most violators are civilians with 22 security guards, eight soldiers, five police officers, two elected officials, one minor also apprehended, and four foreign nationals.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) conducted over 254,000 checkpoints in Commission on Elections-designated areas since January 10, confiscating a total of 1,019 firearms through various police operations; in Central Visayas alone, PRO-7 reported the seizure of 527 loose firearms and 138 arrests as part of their intensified campaign.

Most arrests occurred in Metro Manila with 306, followed by Central Luzon (162), Calabarzon (82), and Central Visayas (138).

The PNP continues to enforce strict measures to curb illegal firearms, prevent election-related violence, and uphold peace and order across the country ahead of the May 12 midterm elections.

Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 in Central Luzon accounted for 260 short firearms from January 10 to February 15 through its revitalized 'Katok' campaign, urging firearm holders to renew licenses or surrender their weapons.