Election period runs from January 13 to June 12

It’s officially the election season in the Philippines. The election period began Sunday, January 13, with the implementation of a gun ban and the activation of at least 1,634 checkpoints across the country. The gun ban will be in place for 5 months, or until 30 days after the May 13 senatorial and local elections this year. Checkpoints will likewise be in effect in hot spot provinces and areas that are prone to violence or peace and order threats for the same length of time. The ban is being implemented amid the existence of private armed groups, 52 of which are believed to be active. Under Commission on Election rules, no individual is allowed to carry a licensed firearm outside the house or a business establishment unless he or she holds a written approval or permit from the poll body. The sale and transport of firearm spare parts are likewise prohibited. All in all, there are about 24 election-related prohibitions during the campaign period.

Read the full story on Rappler. 

A related story on other election-related bans is also on Rappler.