Comelec checkpoints must be in well-lit areas, visible to public – Garcia

M ANILA, Philippines — Commission on Elections (Comelec) checkpoints should not be set up in dark areas, its chief George Erwin Garcia said on Tuesday.

The Comelec-designated checkpoints will be established in specific locations starting January 11 and will remain in place until June 12.

READ: Setting up of Comelec checkpoints to begin on January 11 (Saturday) 

“Putting checkpoints in dark areas is to be avoided; it should be placed in well-lit areas which could be seen by people,” Garcia said in a press conference in Palacio del Gobernador.

Garcia also reminded authorities manning the checkpoints to wear uniforms rather than plain clothes.

Comelec checkpoints will also enforce the nationwide election gun ban.

According to Garcia, the poll body began accepting applications for gun ban exemptions in December last year. Regular officers, members, and agents of the several agencies will be allowed to carry firearms during the election period.

The Comelec has not received any reports of checkpoint violations by police or military personnel, but Garcia still reminded authorities to ensure proper protocols are observed.

“To all of our countrymen and law enforcement authorities that will man checkpoints, we should remember that the rights enshrined in the Constitution are not suspended,” Garcia said.

The Comelec may deputize law enforcement agencies and exercise direct supervision and control over them, as required by law, to perform duties related to the conduct of elections.