Gun enthusiasts may ask for gun ban exemption

CEBU, Philippines — Shooting enthusiasts may request for exemption from the election gun ban, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Provincial Election Supervisor Lionel Marco Castillano said that this is the new provision added to the gun ban guidelines.

However, he clarified that shooting enthusiasts are only qualified to apply for an exemption if they have an upcoming shooting competitions.

He commented that everything else is "basically the same."

Carrying of firearms and other deadly weapons is prohibited 90 days before election day and 30 days thereafter.

The application period for those who want to be exempted from the gun ban starts on December 1.

Gun ban will commence on January 13 and will last until June 12.

Individuals who have threats are also eligible to apply for an exemption but they need to present a certification from the Philippine National Police (PNP) that there is a threat on their lives.

Security agencies are also allowed to file for an exemption. Castillano reminded that security guards may only use the gun at the place where he or she is detailed.

“They are allowed to possess a gun in the place of detail not on their way home,” he said.

Under the Omnibus Election Code, any person found guilty of any election offense may be punished with imprisonment of not less than one year but not more than six years and/or disqualification to hold public office and deprivation of the right of suffrage.

Castillano said Comelec officials in Cebu will meet with the police on Dec. 5 to discuss matters concerning the implementation of the gun ban.

Meanwhile, Castillano disclosed that the Comelec also set guidelines on the maximum security personnel assigned to incumbent officials.

Only the governor and members of the House of the Representatives may avail of the services of a maximum of two security personnel within the gun ban period. (FREEMAN)