Opisyal nang nagsimula ang kampanya para sa May 2022 national and local elections noong January 8, 2022.
Kaugnay nito, naglagay ang Philippine National Police (PNP) ng mga checkpoints para mahigpit na maipapatupad ang nationwide gun ban.
Tatagal ang gun ban hanggang June 8.
Sa isang pahayag, pinaalalahanan ni PNP Chief P/General Dionardo Carlos ang mga police personnel na ang mga checkpoints ay limitado lang sa visual search.
Aniya, “But if the need arises, especially under conditions authorized by law, the police may conduct further inspection.”
Kailangan ding nakasuot ang mga pulis ng prescribed uniform kapag nagmamando ng checkpoints.
Aminado naman si Carlos na magdudulot ng abala ang mga checkpoints sa mga motorista, pero aniya, "This is a strategy to deter those who would attempt to carry and transport firearms while the gun ban is in effect nationwide."
Para matiyak na hindi malalabag ang karapatang pantao ng mga mamamayan, at para alam ng PNP personnel na may hangganan lang ang puwede nilang gawin, ipapatupad sa mga checkpoints ang Advisory Opinion ng Department of Justice (DOJ) na inilabas noong March 24, 2011.
Naglalaman ito ng basic rights ng mga mamamayan kapag dadaan sa military/police checkpoints.
Ang sampung (10) checkpoint rules sa Advisory ay ang mga sumusunod:
- Checkpoint must be well-lighted, properly identified and manned by uniformed personnel.
- Upon approach, slow down, dim headlights and turn on cabin lights. Never step out of the vehicle.
- Lock all doors. Only visual search is allowed.
- Do not submit to a physical or bodily search.
- You are not obliged to open glove compartment, trunk or bags.
- Ordinary/routine questions may be asked. Be courteous but firm with answers.
- Assert your rights, have presence of mind and do not panic.
- Keep your driver’s license and car registration handy and within reach.
- Be ready to use your cellphone at anytime. Speed dial emergency number.
- Report violations immediately. Your actions may save others.