MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) reminded motorists, especially those passing through the 2nd District of Antipolo City, to apply for gun ban exemptions in connection with the March 14 special elections.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia said that even drivers who do not reside in the district but pass through Barangays Calawis, Cupang, Dalig, Inarawan, San Jose, San Juan, San Luis, and San Roque should secure exemptions.

“The gun ban is in effect there in the Second District. There is no gun ban in other districts. But once you enter District 2, where there is a gun ban, you will still be arrested. It would be better to also ask for exemption from Comelec,” Garcia said.

The gun ban will be in effect from February 12 to March 29. Applications for exemptions opened on February 2 and will run until March 18.

Garcia also clarified that while the absolute ban on the release of public funds applies only to the 2nd District, national government assistance programs—such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) and Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), and the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD)—remain covered under the ban.

“Later on, social services will be included in the banned acts, not only from the local government also from the national government. It would be better if they will ask for the appropriate exemption or else face criminal and administrative implications,” he added.

Under Comelec Resolution No. 11185, an absolute ban on the release of public funds will be enforced from March 4 to 13, with burial and medical assistance exempted.

The special elections will select a new representative for Antipolo City’s 2nd District to replace the late Rep. Romeo Acop. Seven candidates have filed certificates of candidacy: Dandin Infante, Reden Llama, Lorenzo Juan Sumulong III, Maria Trinidad Cafirma, Philip Conrad Acop, Nathaniel Lobigas, and Irvin Paulo Tapales.