Comelec Announces Targeted Security Measures for Antipolo City Special Elections
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has officially declared the implementation of a comprehensive gun ban and the establishment of security checkpoints for the upcoming special elections in Antipolo City's Second Legislative District. This targeted security protocol, detailed in Resolution 11190, is specifically confined to the eight barangays that constitute the district, ensuring focused election security measures.
Scope of Security Prohibitions and Checkpoints
According to the Comelec en banc, the election period prohibitions will be strictly enforced only within the designated legislative district. The restrictions explicitly include:
- The bearing, carrying, or transporting of firearms and other deadly weapons.
- The use of explosives, their components, or controlled chemicals.
- The employment or engagement of security personnel or bodyguards.
Furthermore, the operation of Comelec checkpoints and the declaration of election areas of concern or under Comelec control will be applicable solely to the following eight barangays: Calawis, Cupang, Dalig, Inarawan, San Jose, San Juan, San Luis, and San Roque.
Election Period and Exemption Application Process
The election period for the March 14, 2026 special polls is scheduled to run from February 12 to March 29, 2026. In relation to this, the Comelec has outlined the process for obtaining exemptions from the gun ban.
The commission will open the application period for Certificates of Authority (CA), which serve as gun ban exemptions. The electronic filing of applications will commence on February 2, 2026 and conclude on March 18, 2026. Applications will be accepted from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding weekends and holidays.
Extension of Previously Issued Certificates of Authority
In a significant update, the Comelec has announced the extension of validity for certain Certificates of Authority that were issued during the May 2025 national and local elections. These extensions apply to certificates for:
- Law Enforcement Agencies (CA-LEA)
- Diplomatic Missions (CA-DM)
- Security Agencies (CA-SA)
- Cashiers or Disbursing Officers (CA-CDO)
- High-Risk Individuals (CA-HRI)
The Comelec emphasized that these certificates are hereby extended to cover the election period of the March 14, 2026 special election, provided that all applicable licenses, registrations, permits, and other pertinent documents remain valid and updated.
The special elections are being conducted to fill the vacant post of member of the House of Representatives for the Second Legislative District of Antipolo City. These targeted security measures aim to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and credible electoral process in the specified area.
