CEBU, Philippines — Police checkpoints are expected to be a regular sight in Cebu City as the national gun ban takes effect on Sunday.
Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) director Col. Josefino Ligan said they are beefing up the security measures against unauthorized use of firearms as part of the preparations for the upcoming May 2022 national elections.
"Ang sa armas ang gi-allow ra is atong law enforcement personnel together with the Philippine Army, the AFP, and those other government agencies nga naay gun ban exemptions," said Ligan.
Civilians who have secured exemptions from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) are also allowed to continue to carry firearms during the gun ban period—January 9 to June 8.
During the period establishments of checkpoints in all cities and municipalities are mandated. Bearing, carrying and transporting of firearms and other deadly weapons are prohibited.
As mandated under the Comelec Resolution No. 10741, each checkpoint must be well-lighted, properly identified, and manned with uniform personnel. It must also have three feet by four feet signboard to distinguish the place, and warning signs for motorists to slow down.
Physical or body search without reasonable grounds is prohibited. Motorists are also not obliged to open glove compartments, trunks, and bags.
Ligan said checkpoints would be very important to monitor and prevent possible election-related violence. He, however, said that they have not monitored any private armed groups employed by politicians operating in the city.
BUY-BUST
Meanwhile, a drug suspect was injured after allegedly trying to shoot it out with the operatives of Cebu City Intelligence Unit during a buy-bust operation Wednesday noon in Sitio Riverside, Barangay Duljo-Fatima, Cebu City.
The suspect was identified as Arnel Madrigal Trobia, 31, a resident of the said place. He was allegedly on the drug watchlist.
CIU chief Police Lt. Colonel Clark Arriola said the operation stemmed from a report that Trobia has been selling illegal drugs in the area.
During the operation Trobia allegedly tried to shoot an undercover policeman conducting surveillance. A backup operative saw Trobia drew his gun prompting him to shoot the suspect to his buttocks.
The suspect was immediately rushed to the nearest hospital for medical treatment. Seized from him was a caliber .38 revolver and four sachets of suspected shabu worth P136,000. — FPL (FREEMAN)