Police in the Calabarzon have briefed officers on strict guidelines for manning election checkpoints ahead of this year’s national and local polls.

The briefing at Camp Vicent outlined rules that will be in force until June 2025, including restrictions on carrying firearms and protocols for vehicle searches.

Under the rules, checkpoints must be well-lit and staffed by uniformed officers wearing visible identification. Officers are not permitted to conduct physical searches of vehicles or passengers without probable cause.

“We will not tolerate any abuse from our ranks,” said Police Brigadier General Paul Kenneth Lucas, the region’s police director. He stressed that officers must show “maximum tolerance” when dealing with the public.

Motorists are required to slow down at checkpoints and may be asked to turn on interior lights, but cannot be compelled to step out of their vehicles or open compartments during routine stops.

The Philippines has a history of election-related violence, with armed groups and political rivalries sometimes leading to deadly confrontations during campaign periods.