Itogon Police Chief, Police Major Mac Kenley A. Mayomis, announced today that the Philippines entered the election period on Sunday, January 12 for the May 12 midterm elections.
To prevent election-related violence, PMAJ Mayomis emphasized that the Philippine National Police (PNP), in coordination with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and partner agencies, will strictly enforce the gun ban and set up checkpoints throughout the election period.
“Please bear with us as we implement checkpoints anytime and anywhere along highways here in Itogon,” PMAJ Mayomis stated.
The police chief reminded licensed gun owners that all permits to carry firearms are suspended during the election period. Only those with a COMELEC-issued exemption are allowed to carry firearms.
Additionally, PMAJ Mayomis encouraged holders of unregistered firearms to surrender them for safekeeping at the police station.
According to Itogon Elections Officer Reynaldo Oliva, the campaign period for senatorial candidates and party-list groups will run from February 11 to May 10, excluding April 17 and 18 in observance of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.
Meanwhile, the campaign period for candidates running for the House of Representatives and provincial, city, and municipal positions will be from March 28 to May 10.
Candidates are prohibited from campaigning on May 11, and the liquor ban will be enforced until election day on May 12.
The election period will officially end on June 11.
