May 12, 2025 | Sultan Dumalondong, Lanao del Sur — A man was arrested on Monday afternoon for allegedly firing his firearm in public during the ongoing election proceedings in Barangay Bacayawan, Sultan Dumalondong, Lanao del Sur.
The incident occurred around 5:00 PM at the Punung Elementary School, a designated polling center, alarming voters and election personnel in the area. Responding quickly, officers from the Sultan Dumalondong Municipal Police Station (MPS) were able to apprehend the suspect without further incident.
Confiscated from the suspect were a Taurus pistol (Serial No. NCM578201) with one inserted magazine, nine live rounds, and two spent shells.
Authorities said the suspect is facing charges for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, as well as the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) gun ban currently in effect for the 2025 national and local elections.
The suspect remains in police custody pending proper documentation and filing of appropriate charges.
PCOL Robert S. Daculan, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, lauded the swift action of the responding officers. “Their quick response reflects our commitment to maintaining peace and order, especially during this critical time,” he said.
The COMELEC gun ban, enforced during the election period, strictly prohibits the carrying of firearms to ensure safe and orderly polls.