By Jason De Asis
BALER, Aurora – The Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO) on Friday said it has successfully facilitated the voluntary surrender of 12 firearms from local candidates in the May 12 midterm elections.
The firearms, consisting of three light weapons and nine small arms, were formally turned over to the police at the APPO Conference Room in Camp Captain Victor Ravina in this municipality.
“This initiative showcases the commitment of Aurora’s leaders to maintaining peace and order, especially during the election period,” APPO Director Col. Lucile Faycho, who led the turnover, said in a statement.
“We encourage other firearm holders to follow suit, as the Aurora PPO remains dedicated to ensuring a safe and orderly province,” she added.
Among the surrendered firearms were two 12-gauge shotguns, one AK-47, one .40 caliber para-ordnance pistol, three .45 caliber Armscor Medallion pistols, one .22 caliber Walther pistol, one 9mm Glock pistol, one 9mm Rock Island pistol, one Norinco pistol, and one 9mm Jericho pistol.
The surrendered firearms were deposited for safekeeping due to their expired licenses.
Under the law, bearing, carrying or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons is prohibited during the election period unless authorized in writing by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
For this year’s midterm elections, the gun ban is in effect from Jan. 12 to June 11. (PNA)
