PNP Reports Election-Related Incidents Nationwide
Since the election period began in January, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has validated 41 election-related incidents across various regions. Of these, 26 were violent, while 15 were classified as non-violent. The highest number of violent incidents occurred in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), tallying eight cases. Close behind is the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) with seven violent incidents.
Further reports show three violent incidents in the Zamboanga Peninsula and two in Cagayan Valley. Meanwhile, regions such as Ilocos, Central Luzon, Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Davao, and Soccsksargen each recorded one violent incident. These figures highlight the varied challenges faced across the country during the election period.
Ongoing Verification of Suspected Incidents
Aside from the validated cases, the PNP continues to verify 20 suspected election-related incidents. These are spread across Metro Manila, Ilocos Region, Calabarzon, Bicol, Western Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao, BARMM, and CAR. Verification efforts remain active to ensure accurate reporting and swift action.
Thousands Arrested for Election Gun Ban Violations
In a related development, authorities have arrested a total of 2,940 individuals for violating the election gun ban. Metro Manila leads with 1,011 arrests, followed by Central Visayas with 380 and Central Luzon with 362. The arrested include diverse groups: 19 PNP personnel, 18 Armed Forces members, seven other law enforcement agents, nine elected officials, and two appointed officials.
Moreover, the list covers six CAFGU Active Auxiliary members, 13 foreign nationals, three minors in conflict with the law, three communist rebels, 48 security guards, and 2,812 civilians. This broad spectrum underscores the widespread nature of gun ban violations during the election season.
Firearms Seized During Election Period
Authorities confiscated a total of 3,025 firearms amid the crackdown. These include 1,124 revolvers, 849 pistols, and 114 gun replicas. Additionally, 77 explosives, 55 Class A guns, 24 rifles, 24 shotguns, and five Class B guns were seized. These efforts aim to deter violence and promote a safer election environment nationwide.
Election Day is scheduled for May 12. Due to these ongoing incidents and arrests, vigilance and cooperation remain essential for peaceful and orderly elections.