BARMM Gun Ban Takes Effect Ahead of September Parliamentary Elections

Courtesy: Marine Battalion Landing Team-6

A region-wide election gun ban officially took effect on Thursday, July 16, across the entire Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The security measure marks the start of heightened preparations for the upcoming BARMM Parliamentary Elections scheduled for September 14.

Under the strict directive issued by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), the bearing, carrying, and transporting of firearms or other deadly weapons are completely prohibited in all public places. Only law enforcement officers and individuals with an official, COMELEC-approved gun ban exemption are authorized to carry weapons during this period.

To enforce the mandate and deter potential violence, joint security forces are establishing strategic checkpoints across all 105 municipalities and three cities within the autonomous region.

COMELEC and local law enforcement agencies stated that the synchronized operations aim to maintain peace, prevent visual intimidation, and guarantee public security throughout the political transition.

Authorities urge all residents to cooperate at designated checkpoints and comply strictly with the election guidelines to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and credible voting process for the region.