DAGUPAN CITY – In line with the efforts to maintain peace and security for the upcoming May 2025 midterm polls, the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPPO) has called for the public’s cooperation as intensified checkpoints are being implemented to enforce the gun ban.
PCOL Rollyfer Capoquian, provincial director of Pangasinan PPO, said that intensified checkpoint operations, manned by over 1,000 police personnel in Pangasinan, are being implemented to prevent election-related violence and ensure peaceful and orderly elections.
“We urge all our constituents to cooperate with law enforcement personnel manning the checkpoints, because these operations are for the protection and safety of everyone,” said Capoquian, assuring that all checkpoints will be conducted professionally and in strict adherence to human rights law.
The checkpoint is implemented in line with Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 11067, which mandates that during the election period, all permits to carry and possess firearms outside residences are canceled, except for those who secured exemptions from the Comelec or government officials with automatic exemptions.
The checkpoint and gun ban took effect at the start of the election period on Jan. 12 and lasted until June 11.
Gun ban updates
PLT Trisha Guzman, Pangasinan PPO information officer, reported that from Jan. 12 to 16, they recorded 11 surrendered firearms, two were deposited, and 12 were captured, while one case was documented during the checkpoint operations.
Guzman said surrendered firearms were voluntarily turned over by owners who no longer intend to renew their licenses, while deposited firearms are those that are temporarily handed over to authorities by owners who intend to renew their licenses in the future.
“Captured firearms, however, are those confiscated during the conduct of search warrants that violate Republic Act No. 10591, or the Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition,” Guzman said.
Checkpoint guidelines
Meanwhile, Capoquian reminded motorists and vehicle operators to be aware of their rights when passing through checkpoints.
“During checkpoints, the motorist should slow down, dim their vehicle’s headlight, roll down their windows for ocular inspection, and follow the instructions of the police officers calmly and politely,” he said.
He said the driver or its passenger is not required to step-out of their vehicle nor submit to a body search unless there is sufficient reason.
Capoquian added that police officers will not also require motorists, drivers, or riders to open the trunk or compartment of their vehicle.
Call for vigilance
Pangasinan PPO encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any irregularities or suspicious activities during checkpoint operations as well as any misconduct by law enforcement to ensure accountability and transparency.
Capoquian reminded all police personnel to adhere to proper protocols and conduct only ocular inspection during checkpoint operations.
“Please bear with us. We know this may cause some delay, but your cooperation is vital in maintaining peace and security in our province during this election period,” he added.
He assured that police checkpoints are not only about enforcing laws but also about ensuring that every individual’s rights are respected and upheld.
With the joint efforts of the police and the community, Pangasinan PPO aims to create a secure, orderly, and peaceful election. (AMB/EMSA, PIA Pangasinan)