Iloilo police tighten crackdown on loose firearms

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The crackdown in Iloilo City has so far led to 22 search warrants, 20 arrests, and the seizure of 19 firearms and two explosives

ILOILO CITY, Philippines – The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) has stepped up operations against illegally possessed firearms as the local campaign period begins to heat up.

Colonel Bayani Razalan, Iloilo police chief, said authorities are monitoring individuals with unlicensed firearms as part of efforts to ensure peaceful and fair national and local elections on May 12.

To reinforce this effort, the IPPO is employing both persuasive and forceful measures to deter the proliferation of loose firearms.

Since the implementation of the Commission on Elections’ gun ban on January 12, the IPPO has recorded 23 violations. This resulted in 23 arrests and the seizure of 23 firearms.

The gun ban, which remains in effect until June 11, is a key measure to uphold security ahead of the elections, Razalan said.

The Cabatuan Municipal Police Station recorded the most violations with three cases. Passi City and the municipalities of Lambunao, Dueñas, and Sara each logged two violations.

The crackdown has led to 22 search warrants, 20 arrests, and the seizure of 19 firearms and two explosives.

Razalan stressed the importance of strict enforcement to prevent election-related violence and criminal activities.

Razalan added that the arrests serve as a clear and stern warning to individuals unlawfully possessing firearms and those who plan to violate the gun ban.

“They will face serious legal consequences,” he said.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with authorities to help maintain peace and order. – Rappler.com

This article is republished with permission from the Daily Guardian as part of a content-sharing partnership for the 2025 Philippine elections.