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Comelec Imposes Gun Ban Starting August 28 For Barangay Elections
Intramuros, Manila - The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) would like to inform the public about the implementation of the Gun Ban in relation to the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on October 30, 2023.

On May 17, 2023, the Commission En Banc issued COMELEC Resolution No. 10918, also known as the Rules and Regulations on the Ban on the Bearing, Carrying or Transporting of Firearms or Other Deadly Weapons, and Employment, Availment or Engagement of the Services of Security Personnel or Bodyguards during the Election Period of the BSKE.

To ensure the smooth implementation of this resolution, the Committee on the Ban on Firearms and Security Concerns (CBFSC) has been established. The CBFSC, led by Commissioner Aimee P. Ferolino as Chairperson, will issue Certificates of Authority (CA) and oversee the application process for exemptions to the gun ban during the BSKE 2023.

The Gun Ban Period will coincide with the Election Period, which is scheduled to be in effect from August 28, 2023, to November 29, 2023.

During this Election Period, the following actions are strictly prohibited unless authorized by the CBFSC:
1. Bearing, carrying, or transporting firearms and other deadly weapons outside one's residence or place of business, as well as in all public places.
2. Employing, availing, or engaging the services of security personnel and bodyguards.
3. Transporting or delivering firearms and explosives, including their parts, ammunition, and/or components.

Violation of any of these prohibited acts during the Election Period is considered an Election Offense and is punishable by imprisonment for not less than one (1) year but not more than six (6) years, without probation. Additionally, offenders will face permanent disqualification from holding public office and deprivation of the right to suffrage. In the case of foreign violators, deportation will follow their corresponding prison term.

The CBFSC has already started accepting early applications for the issuance of Certificates of Authority (CA) for Gun Ban exemptions as of June 5, 2023. The filing period will continue until November 15, 2023. Interested individuals can submit their applications through the official COMELEC website at www.comelec.gov.ph under the Gun Ban Exemption section.

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