The Commission on Elections has ordered Monday the inclusion of the members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Units (CAFGUs); the Presidential Security Group (PSG); members of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP); the Treasurers, Deputy Treasurers and members of the Internal Security Division of the Bureau of Treasury (BOT); and security personnel of accredited foreign diplomatic corps and establishments, in the list of those authorized by the poll body to bear firearms in the election period for the May 10, 2010 national and local elections.

In Resolution 8742, promulgated January 11, 2010, the COMELEC en banc amended certain portions of Resolution 8714 which outlined the rules and regulations on the bearing and carrying of firearms and other deadly weapons and the employment of bodyguards during the election period.

Aside from amending the list of those who are authorized to bear firearms, the COMELEC also ruled to rename the Regional Joint Security Control Desks to Regional Joint Security Control Centers (RJSCC). The RJSCC is tasked to accept applications from Congressional candidates and other candidates for local elective positions for authority to avail or employ bodyguards in the regions. It is chaired by the COMELEC Regional Election Director.

The COMELEC also authorized the transfer or delivery of firearms bought during the election period so long as it is done by the “authorized dealer itself on a one way basis directly to the address of the buyer within twenty four (24) hours.” ###