Election gun ban starts Jan 13

THE Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 reminded the public that the 2019 election gun ban will take effect next Monday, Jan 13.

Based on the calendar of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) relative to the 2019 midterm elections, the ban takes effect until June 12.

During said period, bearing, carrying or transporting of firearms, explosives or other deadly weapons are prohibited.

Deliveries of firearms, ammunition, and explosives without proper certifications are also disallowed.

Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao, Western Visayas police chief, said qualified individuals can seek exemption by applying for the appropriate certificate of authority from the Comelec.

The application must be filed with the Comelec’s Committee on Ban on Firearms and Security Personnel (CBSFP) at the poll body’s main office in Intramuros, Manila until May 29, 2019.

Bulalacao said that any permit to carry firearm/s outside one’s residence or place of business will be ineffective and without force and effect during the election period “unless properly covered by a  Certificate of Authority.”

“Violation of the said prohibited act shall constitute an election offense. Uniformed personnel who will violate the same will face dismissal from the service,” Bulalaaco said.

He said gun owners could be jailed for one to six years if they violate the gun ban.

Apart from imprisonment, violators would be deprived of their right to vote and to hold public office.