Comelec: Gun ban starts on Jan. 13 to June 12, 2019

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Friday disclosed the rules and regulations for the gun ban and prohibited acts for the 2019 midterm polls.

According to Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez, it would be prohibited to carry or transport weapons and firearms during the election period which is from January 13 to June 12, 2019.

Jimenez, however, noted that under Comelec Resolution No. 10446, qualified persons and entities may seek exemption to the gun ban by applying for the appropriate Certificate of Authority (CA) at the poll body's Committee on the Ban on Firearms and Security Personnel (CBFSP).

Jimenez said application forms and requirements for the issuance of CA must be submitted from December 1, 2018 to May 29, 2019.

He reminded that unless properly covered by the CA, any permit to carry weapons outside an individual's residence or place of business will be ineffective during the election period.

Meanwhile, the Comelec also reminded the public that it is not allowed to "employ, avail or engage the services of security personnel or bodyguards" during poll period.

"It is also prohibited to transport and deliver firearms and/or its parts, ammunition and/or its components, and explosives and/or its components unless duly authorized by the Comelec through the CBFSP," Comelec added.

Violators will be penalized as stated in the Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code, Comelec said. —NB, GMA News