ISABELA CITY, (PIA) – The Commission on Election (COMELEC), together with the police, military and other law enforcement agencies, has established several checkpoints to ensure the strict implementation of gun ban and prevent election-related violence.
General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 101st Brigade, Philippine Army (PA) in Basilan said that 24 checkpoints have been established across the province, of which 6 are in Isabela City, 4 in Lamitan City and the rest are in strategic municipalities.
He appealed for the cooperation of everyone in the implementation of the gun ban for their own safety and security.
“‘Yung mga citizens, yung mga taga Basilan, sabi ko nga na abide by the provisions nitong election gun ban. We also solicit yong cooperation ng lahat ng Basileños to report yung mga violation sa authorities. With our partners from the PNP, of course with the guidance ng COMELEC, we will strictly enforce election gun ban,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Atty. Mohaimen Ali, election officer said that aside from the established checkpoint, the PNP has also one mobile checkpoint going around different barangays.
He said the COMELEC and other partners ensure the safety and security of the residents of Isabela City that’s why checkpoints are established in preparation for national and local elections in 2025. He also appealed to the public to abide by the election protocols.
Pursuant to Section 32 of the Republic Act No. 7166, during the election period, no person shall bear, carry or transport firearms or other deadly weapons in public places, including any building, street, park, private vehicle or public conveyance, even if licensed to possess or carry the same, unless authorized in writing by the commission.
The issuance of firearms licenses shall be suspended during the election period. (EDT/NDR/PIA9-Basilan/with photos from Richard Falcatan-PIO)
