Philippine Gun Ban Leads to Multiple Arrests

On the first day of the nationwide gun ban related to the upcoming May 12 elections in the Philippines, at least six people were arrested for violations across various regions. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has stated that only personnel from law enforcement agencies on official duty can carry firearms during the election period, which lasts from January 12 to June 11, 2025. Violators could face penalties including imprisonment and disqualification from public office. Notably, a businessman in Iloilo City was apprehended with multiple firearms in his vehicle, marking the first recorded offense of the gun ban. Comelec officials have issued 1,131 certificates of exemption to individuals and agencies, allowing them to carry firearms under specific conditions. Police checkpoints have been set up nationwide to enforce the ban, with the Philippine National Police emphasizing strict penalties for violators, including potential revocation of gun licenses.