MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police will deploy some 50,000 policemen to man 3,500 checkpoints all over the country as the nationwide election gun ban takes effect Sunday.

During his visit to Zamboanga City, PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa also ordered the re-shuffling of regional and police directors to prevent local officials from using the police for their political interests.

He also activated a battalion-size PNP Special Action Force (SAF) in Mindanao to augment security forces implementing the gun ban. the 5th SAF battalion will hold its headquarters inside the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Camp Enrile in Malagutay.

Verzosa said any policemen caught abusing the checkpoints will be immediately removed from their posts.

The checkpoints are installed to quell election-related violence especially those involving private armies.

Verzosa said he is determined to dismantle all private armies in Western Mindanao particularly in Sulu, Basilan and some parts of Zamboanga Peninsula.

Sulu, Basilan and Zamboanga Sibugay are considered areas of immediate concern during elections.

Verzosa admitted it would not be easy for them to dismantle private armies especially in Sulu where there are reportedly thousands of armed groups.

CHR warns vs human rights violations

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), meanwhile, urged the PNP respect the human rights of motorists while enforcing the gun ban in checkpoints.

“The idea of checkpoints to enforce the gun ban in order to minimize political violence during the current election campaign period can be an effective tool for peace and order,” said CHR Chairperson Leila de Lima. 

“But even good intentions do not justify human rights violations and abuse of police power.”

The CHR also welcomed reports that Verzosa has given instructions that the constitutional rights of arrested persons should be respected. 

The Commission also called for the PNP-National Capital Region leadership to issue clear guidelines on how to implement the “plain view” doctrine regarding checks for firearms, and how to approach and talk to motorists. 

De Lima reminded the PNP that the law requires their personnel to be identifiable at all times with name labels on their uniforms. The checkpoints should also be clearly identified as official.

The CHR pledged to monitor the implementation of these checkpoints and any others that may be set up around the country.