Over 700,000 guns in the Philippines, whose licenses have expired, have now been classified as loose firearms by the Philippine National Police (PNP). This alarming statistic was revealed during a recent briefing by PNP Public Affairs Chief, Colonel Jean Fajardo. As of March 8, the Firearms and Explosive Office (FEO) had recorded a total of 701,402 expired gun licenses.
In addition to the issue of expired licenses, Fajardo also highlighted the concerning number of gun-related incidents that have taken place. In 2023 alone, there were 4,956 recorded incidents of gun-related violence, and so far this year, there have been 803 incidents. The majority of these incidents involved shootings, alarm and scandal, grave threats, and robberies.
To address this issue, the PNP has made amendments to the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunitions. These amendments now allow civilians to own semi-automatic rifles, also known as SARs. However, this change in policy has faced opposition from several lawmakers who are concerned about the potential negative consequences. They fear that the proliferation of high-powered firearms among civilians could compromise law enforcement efficiency.
One of the lawmakers opposing the new policy is Senator Maria Imelda Josefa “Imee” Marcos. She has expressed her concerns about the possible rise in criminality, terrorism, arms smuggling, and widespread violence, particularly in light of the upcoming 2025 elections. Marcos has called for a halt to the implementation of the law’s new implementing rules and regulations (IRR).
Another lawmaker, Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, has also called for amendments to the law. She emphasizes the need for changes, especially in light of the “rampant” killings happening across the nation.
In response to these concerns, Fajardo has emphasized that the new policy aims to encourage gun owners to register their firearms. She acknowledges the apprehensions surrounding the issue and assures that if there are any necessary amendments to the law, they will go through the proper process.
Fajardo also points out the importance of firearm registration in tracking suspects involved in gun-related crimes. By ensuring that all firearms are registered, it becomes easier for authorities to identify and apprehend individuals responsible for such incidents.
To prevent any potential abuses of the new policy, Fajardo highlights the strict qualifications and safeguards in place for gun ownership. Any individual applying for a gun license must be a Filipino citizen, of legal age, employed, and must provide an income tax return and police clearance. They are also required to undergo psychiatric and drug tests, as well as gun training.
In conclusion, the issue of expired gun licenses and the controversy surrounding civilian ownership of semi-automatic rifles in the Philippines has sparked intense debate among lawmakers and law enforcement agencies. While the PNP aims to address the problem of loose firearms and encourage responsible gun ownership, concerns about potential negative consequences and the need for amendments persist. It remains to be seen how this issue will be resolved and whether further changes will be made to ensure the safety and security of the Filipino people.
Source: The Manila Times
