ILOILO CITY—At least 99 persons were caught violating the gun ban in Western Visayas region since it was implemented last January.
Based on the data of Police Region Office (PRO-6), Negros Occidental province had the highest number of violators with 42.
Iloilo province ranked second with 17 violators.
There were also 11 violators in Aklan province; 10 violators in Iloilo City; nine violators in Bacolod City; five violators in Capiz province; three violators in Antique province; and two violators in Guimaras province.
In all, 58 firearms and 18 bladed weapons were confiscated from the 99 violators.
Since January 9, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has been intensifying the checkpoints across the region with the backing of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
"It is our objective that the upcoming May 9, 2022 National and Local Elections is secure, fair, peaceful and orderly. We cannot do it alone, we need also the cooperation, support and commitment of everyone to achieve this,” said Brigadier General Flynn Dongbo.
Only those with certificates to carry firearms are exempted from the gun ban that will last until June 8.