THE Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO 7) seized a total of 527 loose firearms through its intensified operations in preparation for the upcoming midterm elections on May 12, 2025.
According to the PRO 7, law enforcement personnel have conducted 15,528 checkpoints across the region since the implementation of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) gun ban on January 12, 2025, resulting in the arrest of 170 suspects.
Of the arrested individuals, 96 were apprehended in various police operations, 45 during drug busts, 23 in other law enforcement operations, and six at Comelec checkpoints.
During these operations, authorities confiscated 450 unlicensed firearms, including 47 from buy-bust, 23 from other law enforcement actions, and seven seized at checkpoints.
Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of PRO 7, commended his personnel for following his orders, such as establishing 24-hour checkpoints to ensure peace and order throughout Central Visayas during the election period.
“Our preparations are designed to prevent any disruption and to ensure that the elections are carried out in a peaceful, orderly, and secure manner. The 24-hour checkpoints, along with our other security measures, will help us monitor and prevent any illicit activities that could threaten the safety of our citizens or compromise the elections,” Maranan said.
Although no election-related incidents have been reported in the region, regular patrols, surveillance, and intelligence operations will continue to keep the police on high alert and prevent any security threats.
The deployment of special police units is aimed at ensuring a quick response to any emergencies or election-related disturbances.
Maranan said the success of a safe and peaceful election depends on the cooperation of the police, Comelec, government agencies, and the community.
Maranan urged the public to remain vigilant, follow election laws, and protect their right to vote in a responsible manner. (AYB)