On January 12, 2025, at Kartilya ng Katipunan in Ermita, Manila, the Philippine National Police (PNP) officially had launched simultaneous Commission on Elections (COMELEC) checkpoints nationwide, marking the start of the election period for the May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections (NLE) and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Parliamentary Elections (BARMM PE). This initiative had signaled the nationwide implementation of the gun ban and heightened security measures to ensure a safe and peaceful electoral process.
The event was led by PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia, Commissioner Aimee P. Ferolino, and other key PNP officials, including PLtGen Robert T. Rodriguez, Deputy Chief PNP for Operations; Police Major General Nicolas S. Salvador, Director for Operations; PBGen Anthony A. Aberin, Acting Regional Director, NCRPO; PBGen Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., Deputy Regional Director for Operations, NCRPO; PBGen Arnold Thomas C. Ibay, District Director of the Manila Police Department; and PBGen Jean S. Fajardo, PRO3 Regional Director and PNP Spokesperson. Representatives from other agencies also had attended the event
The checkpoints, strategically positioned nationwide, are integral to the PNP’s efforts to uphold peace and order during the election period. PNP personnel deployed at these checkpoints will strictly monitor compliance with election-related laws, particularly the prohibition on firearms.
Police General Marbil had emphasized that officers manning the checkpoints would adhere to established protocols, ensuring respect for individuals’ rights and privacy. He also reminded all deployed officers to use body-worn cameras or alternative recording devices to enhance transparency and accountability.
“We urge everyone to be patient and understanding as these security measures are put in place. These are all for your safety, and we ask for your continued cooperation to help make this election season peaceful and secure,” PGen Marbil had said.
Commissioner Ferolino, who is in charge of the Gun Ban and Security Concerns Committee, had expressed her gratitude to the police force and other law enforcement authorities for their dedication, stating, “Maraming salamat po sa tulong ng lahat para maisagawa ang activities ng Commission on Elections. We have this gun ban because we want to achieve a peaceful and orderly election. We invite our citizens to cooperate fully.”
She also had highlighted the early preparations of the committee, including the acceptance of applications for gun ban exemptions to ensure a smooth implementation of security measures.
COMELEC Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia had underscored two vital directives for law enforcement agencies: impartiality and transparency.
“Impartiality is critical in ensuring that laws and regulations are enforced fairly. Walang pinapanigan, walang kinikilingan. Transparency is equally important. Wala tayong tinatago—kung ano ang mali, ating ico-correct; kung ano ang tama, ating itutuloy,” Chairman Garcia had said.
He had assured the PNP and other law enforcement authorities of the COMELEC’s full support, encouraging them to perform their duties with integrity and professionalism.
Both PNP and COMELEC call on the public to support the security measures. “These measures, including the gun ban, are critical to ensuring peace and order throughout the election period. By working together, we can achieve a secure and orderly electoral process,” said PGen Marbil.
PNP, in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies and election authorities, will continue to monitor the entire election process, aiming to uphold the integrity and safety of the 2025 elections.
