ILOILO City – From Jan. 23 to March 12 this year, 12 persons here were arrested for violating the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) gun ban, according to the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO).
Policemen also confiscated various weapons, included bladed ones such as knives, bolos and spears. For guns, only one .31 handgun was seized, and six live ammunitions.
Comelec Resolution No. 10446 prohibits the bearing or transporting of firearms and other deadly weapons and explosives by any person during this election period. All permits to carry firearms are suspended unless authorized.
Any person caught violating the Comelec resolution faces sanctions such as imprisonment from one to six years, permanent disqualification from holding public office, loss of right to vote, and cancellation of and/or perpetual disqualification to secure a gun license or permit.
The gun ban will last until June 12, 2019 or a month after the May 13 midterm elections./PN
