Comelec chairman George Erwin M. Garcia and PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil lead the launching of the checkpoint at the Kartilya ng Katipunan, Ermita, Manila which symbolizes the start of the intensified security measure for the midterm elections on May 12, 2025. (photo: John Louie Abrina)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has set up almost 1,500 checkpoints across the country in the first day of intensified security measures for the start of the election period of the midterm polls on May 12.
PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the checkpoints will play a key role in the effort to contain the movement of criminal elements and those with intent to sabotage the peaceful conduct of the elections, as well as the movement of the loose firearms.
So far, he said at least four people were already arrested for violating the nationwide gun ban which started on Sunday, Jan. 12— one violator each in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Central Mindanao, Central Luzon and Western Visayas.
“We have 1,472 checkpoints and all of these checkpoints are fully accounted for and will continue. I have already issued a directive that these should be done in the morning, at noon time and at nighttime,” said Marbil.
“The checkpoints that would be set up should not go down to 1,000 every day. We want to make the people feel the presence of the Comelec (Commission on Elections) and the PNP,” he added.
Marbil was with Comelec chairman George Erwin M. Garcia during the official launch of the nationwide Comelec checkpoints on Sunday at the Kartilya ng Katipunan, Ermita, Manila.
He said the launch begins an intensified campaign to ensure a safe, secure, and orderly election period.
Marbil said establishment of the checkpoints is part of the PNP’s ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and secure election environment.
The checkpoints, he said. will be operational across key locations nationwide, with PNP personnel deployed to monitor and enforce election-related laws, including the prohibition of firearms.
“We call on the public to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers manning the checkpoints. 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 Marbil.
Marbil also emphasized that the security protocols being implemented are for the benefit of the public’s safety and are in line with the Comelec’s directives.
All checkpoints, he said, will be conducted in accordance with established protocols, ensuring that individuals’ rights and privacy are respected.
“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,” said Marbil.
“The PNP will continue to monitor and secure the entire election process, in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies and election authorities,” he added.
In Metro Manila, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin said the checkpoints in various parts of the metropolis will serve as vital tools for enforcing election laws, particularly the prohibition of firearms and other security measures.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Police Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin discusses the election security measures in Metro Manila with PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil during the launching of Comelec checkpoint for the midterm elections at the Kartilya ng Katipunan, Ermita, Manila on Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. photo: John Louie Abrina)
Aberin said the checkpoints aim to create an environment where voters can exercise their rights freely and without fear by mitigating potential threats.
“The NCRPO is fully committed to ensuring that this election period is marked by peace, order, and security. Through these checkpoints, we will uphold the law and maintain the sanctity of the electoral process,” said Aberin.
“As the guardians of peace and democracy, the NCRPO and its partners send a clear and resounding message: the safety and sanctity of the 2025 elections are non-negotiable. With unwavering resolve and united efforts, they stand as the vanguard of a future where every vote counts and every voice is heard,” he added.