• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The conduct of checkpoints and a gun ban are among the stricter measures that will be enforced by the Commission on Elections in line with the May 12 polls, as the election period started on January 12.
Provincial Election Supervisor Atty. Ian Lee Ananoria, who inspected Comelec checkpoints in some areas of Negros Occidental, said the conduct of checkpoints are aimed to remind the public that election period already started, and the ban on carrying of firearms, including licensed gun holders, is now in effect.
During the election period, all permits to carry and possess firearms outside residence are canceled, except for those who have secured an exemption from the Comelec or government officials with automatic exemptions.
On Jan. 11, the Comelec also activated the Provincial Joint Security Coordinating Center of Negros Occidental, as well as the Regional Joint Security Coordinating Center of Negros Island Region.
Ananoria enjoined police and military personnel manning the checkpoints to be courteous, and observe the plain view doctrine.
Security officers are not allowed to conduct body searches or require drivers to open their trunk or glove compartment for inspections, unless there are reasonable grounds that the person inside the vehicle has committed, is committing, or will commit a crime, according to the Comelec.
On the other hand, the Philippine National Police called on the public to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers manning the checkpoints.
During the RJSCC meeting, Ananoria said the discussion was focused on contingency plans in case of another eruption of Kanlaon volcano.
Atty. Lionel Marco Castillano, Comelec regional director for Negros Island Region, disclosed earlier that Comelec chairman George Garcia ordered the conduct of election in evacuation centers, so the proclamation of winning senators and partylist representatives is not delayed.*
