Bicol: The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) is urging all gun owners, particularly those with expired registrations, to surrender their firearms for safekeeping. In an interview on Tuesday, PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon stated that gun owners may turn in their firearms to police stations for security and compliance with the ongoing election gun ban.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dizon emphasized that surrendering firearms demonstrates gun owners’ commitment to complying with the gun ban implementation and contributes to a peaceful conduct of the national and local elections on May 12. He explained that gun owners could retrieve their firearms once they renew their licenses.
From January 12 to 26, PRO-5 reported that 62 assorted firearms, mostly .38 revolvers, .45 caliber pistols, 9mm pistols, and shotguns, were voluntarily turned in. Four individuals were arrested for violating the gun ban. Dizon highlighted that every firearm surrendered is a step closer to a secure and peaceful election, noting that compliance with the gun ban is a shared responsibility.
The gun ban, under Commission on Elections Resolution No. 11067, is effective until June 11. This resolution prohibits the carrying and transporting of firearms and deadly weapons unless authorized. Dizon mentioned that PRO-5 has established checkpoints across the region.
He warned that violators would face appropriate legal action as authorities remain committed to maintaining peace and order during the election period.
