Southern Leyte PNP maintains checkpoints for duration of election gun ban

Maasin City (14 January) -- At least 21 checkpoints scattered throughout the different strategically located spots and entry points in Southern Leyte province have been maintained by the various field units of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Police Sr. Supt. Pepito Pacada, PNP Provincial Director, told PIA in a phone interview today that the checkpoints were in compliance to a Commission on Elections (Comelec) order for a nationwide gun ban starting January 10 up to June 9, a time-frame also known as the election period.

Here in the province nobody was caught carrying guns thus far since the gun ban took effect this week, Pacada said.

As a way of spreading information to the general public, Pacada said his office caused the putting of streamers in many visible places in the province to keep the people duly informed and be aware of the gun ban, one of which is displayed at this city's bus terminal.

Even Police officers not in uniform carrying guns can be caught, he added.

As to security escorts of prominent public officials in the province, Pacada said this has been limited to two cops pending the officials' application for exemption filed direct to the Regional Comelec office.

Among the provincial officials which he knew sough exemption were Congressman Roger Mercado, Gov. Damian Mercado, Vice-Governor Mike Maamo, and at least three Mayors.

Those who did not seek exemption can still be provided with area security from the regular PNP units in the field upon conduct of proper assessment by the concerned Police officer, Pacada also said. (By Bong Pedalino PIA-Southern Leyte)

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