CEBU CITY – Twenty-five persons have been arrested in Central Visayas since the election gun ban was enforced on Jan. 12, the Police Regional Office-Central Visayas said.
The PRO-7 also said that 35 firearms – 13 pistols and 22 revolvers – and bullets were seized.
Among those arrested was a 48-year-old former soldier in Barangay Dumlog, Talisay City, Cebu. The suspect worked as a butcher after going Absent Without Official Leave from the military.
Since the start of the gun ban, 3,591 checkpoints have been set up by the PRO-7, Commission on Elections-7, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The gun ban is part of the measures to ensure an orderly and peaceful conduct of the May elections.
Police Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, PRO-7 chief, said the conduct of the intensified campaign against loose firearms will be crucial in maintaining peace during the election.
"PRO-7 maintains a neutral and non-partisan stance throughout the electoral process, prioritizing public safety. The PRO-7 continues to implement new and effective anti-crime strategies, particularly targeting loose firearms," Maranan said.
Maranan urged gun owners to surrender unregistered or firearms with expired licenses.
The gun ban prohibits the carrying of firearms outside homes without proper authorization.
"As the 2025 national and local elections approach, the goal is to achieve a safer Central Visayas, aiming for zero gun-related crimes," Maranan added.