By Sarwell Meniano

 POLL SECURITY. A checkpoint set up in Baybay City, Leyte, for the 2025 elections in this undated photo. These checkpoints from Jan. 12 to June 11, 2025, are meant to enforce the election gun ban. (Photo courtesy of Leyte Baybay City Police Office)

TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas (PRO-8) has reported the arrest of 48 individuals for violating the gun ban for the May 12 midterm elections.

These arrests occurred from Jan. 12, the start of the gun ban, until May 5, said PRO-8 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Jay Cumigad in an interview on Tuesday.

Of the 48 arrested, 45 are civilians, two are security guards and a soldier. Confiscated at checkpoints are 43 small firearms, six replicas, two explosives, and 246 rounds of ammunition.

Cumigad appealed to residents in Eastern Visayas to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station.

“We will remain vigilant, and we will ensure that all security measures are in place to guarantee a peaceful and orderly election next week. The full cooperation of the public is crucial as we work together with our partners to uphold the integrity of the electoral process,” Cumigad said.

The official reminded the public that the gun ban, which remains in effect until June 11, strictly prohibits the bearing, carrying, or transporting of firearms or other deadly weapons in public places, regardless of licensing status, unless specifically authorized in writing by the Commission on Elections. (with reports from Angelo Bryan B. Pelias, OJT/PNA)