PNP classifies 700K guns with expired licenses loose firearms

OVER 700,000 guns whose licenses have expired have been classified as loose firearms by the Philippine National Police (PNP).

During a briefing Monday, PNP Public Affairs chief Col. Jean Fajardo said that as of March 8, the Firearms and Explosive Office (FEO) had recorded 701,402 expired gun licenses.

Fajardo also said 4,956 incidents of gun-related violence were recorded in 2023, and 803 incidents so far this year.

Most of the incidents involved shootings, alarm and scandal, grave threats and robberies.

Fajardo said 3,792 gun-related cases were filed in courts, and 1,136 were referred for prosecution.

The PNP has also amended the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunitions,

allowing civilians to own semi-automatic rifles or SARs.

Several lawmakers are opposed to allowing civilians to possess SARs, concerned that the proliferation of such high-powered firearms could compromise law enforcement efficiency.

Sen. Maria Imelda Josefa “Imee” Marcos said the new PNP policy could result in a rise in criminality, terrorism, arms smuggling, and widespread violence, especially in light of the 2025 elections.

Marcos sought a stop to the implementation of the law’s new implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros called for amendments, especially in light of “rampant” killings across the nation.

Fajardo said the new policy aims to encourage gun owners to register their firearms.

“We understand their apprehensions. If there would be some amendment of the substantive part of the law, they will go through the process,” Fajardo said.

She said it will be easier for authorities to track suspects in gun-related crimes if all firearms are registered.

Fajardo earlier said safeguards are in place to ensure that the new policy will not be abused. These include the strict qualifications for gun ownership.

A gun license applicant must be a Filipino citizen, of legal age, employed, must present an income tax return and police clearance, and go through psychiatric and drug tests and gun training.