TASK Force Davao is intensifying its presence at city checkpoints in light of the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE) and the current gun ban.
Colonel Darren E. Comia, TFD Commander, said that they have reinforced their checkpoints, particularly at entry points to the city, to align with the ongoing nationwide gun ban associated with the BSKE.
Comia said that their troops have increased their presence along the 57-kilometer shoreline of the city, as well as along the Davao River. This effort is aimed at inspecting motorized boats and other watercraft for illegal materials during the gun ban and potential drug-related contraband.
“Naglagay din tayo diyan ng isang checkpoint diyan sa gitna ng Davao River nang sa ganun macheck lahat ng bangka na pumapasok ng Davao city para walang makapasok na ilegal na kargamento at mga kontrabando (We have also established a checkpoint in the middle of the Davao River to inspect all boats entering Davao City, ensuring that no illegal cargo or contraband enters the city),” Comia said in an interview over the Davao City Disaster Radio, September 25.
He said TFD, in collaboration with Mindanao's naval forces and the Bureau of Customs, successfully intercepted a boat carrying alleged illegal cigarettes along the coastline in Bunawan, Davao City, on September 25.
According to a spot report shared with the media, a motorized boat arriving in Minterbro, Brgy. Ilang, Davao City, on September 25, was intercepted by TFD and BOC-Davao operatives. The boat, originating from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in the Muslim Mindanao region, was found to be transporting smuggled cigarettes.
Upon inspection, authorities seized 1,152 boxes of smuggled cigarettes, valued at P28,800,000 on the street. Thirteen passengers and crew members on board the motorized boat, primarily residents of Basilan, Zamboanga, and Davao City, were also apprehended.
Comia assured Dabawenyos that these checkpoints will continue to enhance their presence for a more peaceful election and a safer living environment in the city.
In accordance with Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution No. 10918, released on May 17, 2023, regulations concerning the prohibition of bearing, carrying, or transporting firearms, deadly weapons, and the employment of security personnel or bodyguards during the election period are in effect.
The ban also encompasses the carrying and transporting of other deadly weapons.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) have also established Comelec checkpoints nationwide. ICE