It is important to know your rights on check points especially during election period, where military and police check points are scattered in/out of the municipalities and cities nationwide.

Ten (10)Important Reminders for Check Points.

1. Checkpoint must be well-lighted, properly identified and manned by uniformed person. Upon approach, slow down, dim headlights and turn on cabin lights.

2. Never step out of the vehicle.

3. Lock all doors. Only visual search is allowed.

4. Do not submit to a physical or body search.

5. You are not obliged to open glove compartment, trunk or bags.

6. Ordinary/routine questions may be asked. Be courteous but firm with answers.

7. Assert your rights, have presence of mind and do not panic.

8. Keep your driver’s license and car registration handy and within reach.

9. Be ready to use your cell phone at anytime. Speedily dial emergency numbers.

10. Report violations immediately. Your actions may save others.

Aside from the PNP and AFP Checkpoint Guidelines, the Commission of Elections (COMELEC) also updated their guidelines on the establishment of Check Points to effectively implement the nationwide firearms ban during the election period.

Comelec Checkpoint – There shall be at least one (1) COMELEC checkpoint in each city/municipality to be manned by the Philippine National Police (PNP). Additional checkpoints may be established at the discretion of the highest ranking official of the PNP in the city or municipality. In areas jointly identified by the COMELEC and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to be under serious armed threat?, additional checkpoints may be established at the discretion of the highest ranking official of the AFP.

Checkpoint location – The officials mentioned in the immediately preceding section, shall, in consultation with the city/municipality section officer (EO), establish checkpoints in their respective areas of jurisdiction only in places which are well lighted. In areas where electric light is not available, artificial lighting shall be provided for the purpose.

Checkpoint Signboard – Each COMELEC checkpoint shall have a signboard, measuring three feet by four feet (3X4), to clearly identify the place as a COMELEC checkpoint from a reasonable distance. The following shall be printed/painted on both sides in bold red letters on a white background;

Notice of the location of checkpoints – The commanding officer/team leader of the checkpoint must give notice to the EO, as well as non-government organizations and other civic organizations about the establishment and location of COMELEC checkpoints in the locality.

Spot Checkpoint – When the circumstances so warrant, spot checkpoint may be established in locations other than those mentioned in the preceding section. Spot checkpoints shall be established only in places which are well-lighted. Where electric light is not available, artificial lighting shall be provided. Before establishing such checkpoints, the commanding officer/team leader shall give notice to the EO.

Personnel to man checkpoint – Any unit designated to man a Comelec checkpoint must be led by a responsible regular member of the AFP/PNP.

AFP and PNP personnel manning the checkpoints must be in complete uniform and shall not be under the influence of liquor/drug. Any violation hereof shall make the offender and his commanding officer jointly liable for administrative/criminal action.

Briefing by the commanding officer/team leader – A briefing must be given by the commanding officer/team leader to all members of the unit designated to man the checkpoints, with the emphasis on the proper manner of searching.