Elections gun ban starts today

By CONG B. CORRALES
Editor-in-Chief
and BEN BALCE
Associate Editor

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) here said that it is all systems go for the election period for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), which starts today and will end on November 29.

Comelec-10, along with the Army’s 4th Infantry Division and 1st Infantry Division, Police Regional Office-10, Department of Interior and Local Government-10, and other government agencies, held a coordinating conference and regional joint security control center meeting last Friday to discuss security plans and preparations for the upcoming BSKE 2023.

City Comelec Elections Officer lawyer Ramel Acol told Gold Star Daily that everything is in place for the start of the election period.

“On our end, the Office of the City Election Officer of this city has already convened with the various stakeholders, reactivating the Provincial Joint Security Command Center, ensuring peace and order for the start of the election period,” Acol said.

During the meeting, updates on the peace and order situation, electoral laws and processes, security and safety preparations, deployment plans, and contingency measures were discussed.

The meeting aimed to enhance collaboration, coordination, and communication among various agencies, exchanging insights, best practices, and valuable recommendations for the success of the BSKE.

“Rest assured that we are equipped and ready for the upcoming election,” said Acol.

For his part, Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, emphasized their commitment to working with other agencies and the public during the election period.

He assured that all available resources would be deployed to ensure the safety of voters and the integrity of the election.

The 4ID also pledged to intensify combat and intelligence efforts to prevent any disruption by the communist terrorist groups or other peace spoilers during this crucial event.

The AFP firearms regulations and the collaborative efforts of agencies, including the AFP, Comelec, and other stakeholders, aim to maintain security and credibility during the election period while upholding the responsibility of ensuring a smooth and successful electoral process.

During the election period, active regular members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will be allowed to bear, carry, or transport a maximum of two firearms.

This privilege, however, comes with certain conditions that must be followed as outlined in Comelec Resolution 10918.

For government-issued firearms, AFP members must possess specific documents such as the Letter Order (LO) and/or Mission CE License to Own and Possess Firearms Order (MO).

They must also have the Property Acknowledgment Receipt (PAR) and/or Acknowledgment Receipt of Equipment (ARE) to ensure proper authorization for possessing and transporting these firearms.

If AFP members wish to carry personal firearms, they need to have a Certificate of Firearms Registration (CFR) as well as a Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR).

Valid LO and/or MO for personal firearms are also required for verification of lawful registration.

During the election period, AFP members need to adhere to additional conditions.

They must wear their designated uniform at all times, displaying their name, rank, and valid AFP-issued identification card prominently.

This visual identification ensures transparency and accountability for firearm possession and usage.

Additionally, AFP members may only carry firearms while on duty or when going to or returning from their residence, dwelling, barracks, or station.

Carrying firearms outside of these situations is strictly prohibited during the election period.

These regulations, implemented by Comelec, aim to ensure safety and security during the election period while recognizing the responsibilities of AFP members.