Treñas adheres to Comelec rule on police escorts
City Mayor Jerry Treñas has complied with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) guidelines allowing him to have only two uniformed police escorts. Since yesterday, only two police escorts were found guarding the mayor. He has also assigned two police auxiliaries in his office.
Under the Comelec guidelines, mayors and congressmen can have two police escorts. While governors are allowed to have four uniformed police and four military escorts.
Comelec Resolution 8714 prohibits the carrying and transport of firearms, explosives and deadly weapons during the 150-day election period which is Jan. 10 to June 9, 2010.
In the same resolution, only bonafide members of the PNP, AFP and law enforcement agencies in proper uniform and while in actual performance of official duty are authorized to carry guns during the election period.
Treñas said he has already applied for an exemption before the Comelec to avail of security personnel armed with their legally issued firearms before the Joint Security Control Center Desk. His act should serve as example to other candidates or politicians.
The chief executive said he will also exert effort if he receives complaint from people regarding the non-compliance of candidates relative to the Comelec guidelines on gun ban and security detail.
The mayor is also appreciative on the conduct of road checkpoints in the different parts of the city. It will help in the peace and order in the city particularly when Dinagyang is fast approaching.
The checkpoints help prevent the entry of firearms and bladed weapons to the city, said Treñas.
