ILOILO CITY (PIA) – – The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has reminded the public of the strict implementation of the gun ban effective January 12, the start of the election period for the 2025 midterm elections.
As mandated by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), January 12 to June 11, 2025 is the official election period for the upcoming National and Local Elections (NLE) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections on May 12, 2025.
To ensure compliance, the ICPO will intensify its security operations during this period, particularly during the celebration of this year’s Dinagyang Festival with highlights on January 24-26, to guarantee a peaceful and orderly environment for both residents and visitors.
ICPO Director PCol Kim P. Legada emphasized the importance of cooperation from the public during the period.
“Let us work together to uphold safety and create a secure environment for everyone during this critical period. Compliance with the gun ban is a shared responsibility,” said Legada.
The bearing, carrying, or transporting of firearms and other deadly weapons, unless authorized in writing by the COMELEC, are strictly prohibited during the enforcement of gun ban.
Penalties for violating the gun ban, classified as an election offense include: Imprisonment, permanent disqualification from holding public office and loss of voting rights; and for foreigners, deportation after serving the prison term.
These prohibited acts are outlined under COMELEC Resolution No. 10999, issued on May 24, 2024, which specifies the calendar of activities and periods during which these restrictions apply.
For inquiries or assistance, the public is encouraged to contact the ICPO Hotline Numbers: 0908-377-0194 or 335-0299, or visit the nearest police station. (AAL/LAF/PIA6-Iloilo/ICPO)
