PNP to put up more checkpoints in and around Metro Manila

If you’re heading out of the house this week, don’t be surprised to see more checkpoints by the Philippine National Police (PNP) inside Metro Manila and around its borders.

Starting last January 9, 2022, the PNP announced that they will be conducting checkpoint operations in strategic locations to implement the gun ban ahead of the upcoming elections. That’s not all, though. The agency said there will also be checkpoints to restrict the movement of unvaccinated individuals in areas under Alert Level 3.

The checkpoints for the gun ban will be effective from January 9, 2022, until June 8, 2022. This is pursuant to Commission on Election (Comelec) Resolution 10728, which states that the validity of all Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) issued to licensed firearm holders are suspended for the entire duration. Only police, military, and law enforcement agents in complete uniform and while on official duty may carry firearms.

As for the quarantine and border control checkpoints, individuals will only need to present proof of vaccination along with appropriate identification cards. Per the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), these checkpoints are in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to restrict movements of unvaccinated individuals and ordinances passed by local government units (LGUs).

Last week, Metro Manila Mayors passed Resolution 22-01 that urges the Metro Manila local government units to enact their respective ordinances on the enhanced restrictions of the unvaccinated individuals to regulate their mobility. For example, Quezon City already passed Ordinance 3076 on January 4, requiring all non-vaccinated individuals to stay indoors apart from essential trips.

So if you do need to head out, remember to not bring your firearm. Instead, remember to have your vaccination card (and booster card) with you at all times.