BAGUIO CITY – Two months into the official election period for the 2025 national and local elections, the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) continues to enforce the provisions of the Omnibus Election Code, particularly the implementation of the nationwide gun ban.
Since the start of the election period on January 12, 2025, BCPO has taken possession of 28 firearms, which were voluntarily surrendered and confiscated. Three of these were seized through successful police operations.
To further strengthen the enforcement of the gun ban, BCPO continues to establish fixed checkpoints across the city, serving as a deterrent against the unauthorized carrying of firearms and other deadly weapons. These checkpoints, manned by BCPO personnel in coordination with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), play a critical role in ensuring strict compliance with election-related security measures.
Meanwhile, OPLAN “Bakal Sita” has been intensified in public establishments and crowded areas to prevent the illegal possession of firearms and other prohibited weapons.
Recognizing that election security is a shared responsibility, the BCPO urges the public to actively cooperate in ensuring a peaceful election. “Maintaining Baguio’s safe and orderly electoral culture is a shared duty. We call on all Baguio residents to strictly comply with the gun ban and report any suspicious activities that may compromise public safety,” said BCPO City Director PCol. Ruel D. Tagel, emphasizing the importance of upholding the city’s reputation for secure and orderly elections.
