Businessman 1st gun ban violator in W. Visayas as election period starts

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — A businessman involved in a traffic mishap became the first reported violator of the gun ban in Western Visayas as the election period began Sunday.

The suspect, a 41-year-old resident of Barangay Tabuc Suba, accidentally hit a bibingka (rice cake) stall in Barangay Seminaryo, Jaro District, around 1 a.m.

Responding officers noticed firearms in plain view inside his pickup truck.

Seized from the suspects were two 9mm pistols, two magazines, 16 rounds of ammunition, one Armalite rifle, eight magazines, and 251 rounds of ammunition.

The suspect is now detained at the Jaro Police Station and faces charges of violation of Republic Act Nos. 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and 7166 (election gun ban).

Western Visayas Regional Elections Director Dennis Ausan emphasized the importance of observing the gun ban, which is enforced by the Regional Joint Security Control Center comprising the military, police, and coast guard.

The Commission on Elections also restricts the transfer of civil service employees, suspension of local officials, and use of security details until June 11 unless clearance is obtained.

“Awareness of prohibited acts ensures a fair and peaceful electoral process,” Ausan said.