A CIVILIAN who was caught with an improvised gun locally known as “sumpak” and possession of an illegal drug became the first violator of the election gun ban in Davao City.
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Major Rose Aguilar said in a forwarded press release that the person was identified as Jemar Bustillo Tajora alias “Dodong,” 30, a resident of Barangay Talomo River, Calinan District.
Aguilar said Tajora was found in possession of sumpak with two live ammo at Teachers Village in Barangay Calinan Poblacion, Calinan on January 10, 2021 at 11 p.m.
The arrested individual was also caught in possession of a rolled newspaper believed to contain marijuana with fruiting tops.
The police official said the individual was arrested after a tip from a concerned citizen wherein the improvised gun was tucked at the apprehended suspect's waist.
Aguilar said charges await for Tajora in violation of Republic Act (RA) 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, RA 10591 or Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 10728, which suspends the permit to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) for civilians.
Police forces started to enforce the suspension of PTCFOR on Sunday, January 9, 2022, which also marks the start of the election season.
According to the Comelec resolution, there will be at least one checkpoint in all municipalities and cities in the entire country as the election period and the gun ban start.
During the election period, it is prohibited to bear, carry, or transport firearms or other deadly weapons, unless authorized in writing by the commission.
The Comelec said it is also prohibited during the election period to use security personnel or bodyguards by candidates unless authorized in writing by the commission.
Aguilar said long lines are expected in checkpoints. She asked for the cooperation and patience of motorists in compliance with the implementation of the election gun ban.
"Bation gyud na sa kadaghanan. Mangayo lang ta og gamayng dispensa sa mga malangan. Magkonsidera mo, sa mga mutrabahuay ug motorista nga mo-adjust mo gamay sa inyong schedule aron dili kaayo maipit inyong panahon. Lauman ninyo nga naa gyud mga checkpoint sa mga estasyon nga gitan-aw pud namo nga strategic area nga magpahigayon mi og ana (Many motorists would be experiencing this. We ask for the public’s understanding if they would be experiencing delays. Motorists and travelers, especially those working, would have to consider adjusting their schedules so they do not encounter problems on their trips. Expect that there would be checkpoints in strategic areas)," Aguilar said.