In preparation for the 2025 midterm elections, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) intensified their security operations nationwide starting Sunday, January 12.
COMELEC Checkpoints
Both agencies launched the COMELEC checkpoints on Sunday, at the Kartilya ng Katipunan in Ermita, Manila. According to the NCRPO, the significant step affirms their commitment to public trust and the sanctity of the 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Parliamentary Elections (BARMM PE).
“This significant event begins an intensified campaign to ensure a safe, secure, and orderly election period,” the NCRPO said in its social media post.
The checkpoints aim to foster an environment where individuals feel safe enough to exercise their rights, without fear by mitigating potential threats, the NCRPO said.
“The NCRPO is fully committed to ensuring that this election period is marked by peace, order, and security. Through these checkpoints, we will uphold the law and maintain the sanctity of the electoral process,” NCRPO acting Regional Director PBGen. Anthony A. Aberin said.
The NCRPO added that checkpoints were “strategically placed” across the country, to serve as vital tools for enforcing election laws, specifically the prohibition of firearms and other security measures.
Zero Tolerance for Election Gun Ban Violations
To prevent election-related crime and violence, the gun ban implementation began on Sunday, alongside the launch of COMELEC’s checkpoints.
Under Republic Act No. 7166, individuals are prohibited from bearing, carrying, or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons in public places, including buildings, streets, parks, and vehicles, unless authorized by the Commission in writing. The Omnibus Election Code also prohibits any person from carrying the same objects outside of their residence or place of business during the election period, unless granted permission by the COMELEC.
In a press release on Sunday, Aberin assured the public that the NCRPO is fully prepared to enforce the COMELEC’s gun ban, starting January 12.
Additionally, personnel have been meticulously deployed to checkpoints in key locations and are supported by robust coordination among district, station, and unit commanders. To enable real-time monitoring and swift responses, advanced command and control centers have also been activated. This ensures that every aspect of the operation is managed with precision and professionalism.
“Under my leadership, the NCRPO will execute the election gun ban with the highest level of discipline, respect for human rights, and zero tolerance for violations. This is a firm commitment to defend the integrity of our democratic process. Let it be known—those who threaten the peace and safety of our elections will face immediate and decisive action. Our primary goal is to guarantee that every citizen can cast their vote without fear or intimidation,” PBGen. Aberin assured.
In addition to the gun ban, the NCRPO will also be confiscating loose firearms that could compromise public safety. Officers have also undergone refresher training and operational briefings to enforce discipline and strict adherence to Police Operational Procedures (POP), specifically at checkpoints.
During the election period, only law enforcement personnel in complete uniform and on official duty will be authorized to carry firearms. Civilians and private entities who wish to be exempted are required to secure a Certificate of Authority from COMELEC.
The NCRPO reiterated that firearms without proper authorization are prohibited from being brought outside residences or places of business.
Penalties
Penalties for violating the mentioned rules may face one to six years of imprisonment. They may also be permanently disqualified from public office and will be deprived of the right of suffrage.
If the violator is a foreigner, they will be sentenced to deportation after the prison term has been served.
“The success of this election gun ban depends on all of us. As law enforcement, we will do our part with determination and vigilance. But we also call on every citizen to stand with us—report violations, comply with the law, and help us protect the sanctity of this democratic process. Together, we can achieve an election period that is secure and free from violence,” PBGen. Aberin said.
