Solons want one-year extension of validity of gun licenses, permits

Congressmen on Friday called for a one-year extension of validity of firearm ownership licenses and permit to carry outside of residence.

In a virtual hearing, the House Committee on Public Order and Safety unanimously adopted House Resolution 1119 filed by lawmakers led by Reps. Duke Frasco (PDP-Laban, Cebu); Rida Robes (NUP, San Jose del Monte City); Gavini Pancho (NUP, Bulacan) and Narciso Bravo Jr. (PDP-Laban, Masbate).

In their proposal, the lawmakers sought the suspension for a year of the one-year validity of Permit to Carry Firearm Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) which is mandated under the revised rules and regulations of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

They asked the Philippine National Police to suspend the deadlines for the submission of documentary requirements for the renewal of permits of gun owners.

The lawmakers also called for a similar extension period for the validity of firearms registration and license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF).      

They noted that it would be difficult for legitimate firearm owners to comply with the provisions of RA 10591 for the renewal of firearms registration and licenses, LTOPFs and PTCFOR’s in view of the abnormal conditions brought about by the COVID 19 pandemic.

“The implementation of alternative work schemes significantly reduces manpower/personnel tasked to deal with the regular number of renewal of registration and licenses causing reasonable delays in the process,” authors of HR 1119 explained.      

According to them responsible gun owners in the country are being prevented from complying with the prescribed period to renew their firearms documentation because of the prevailing epidemic.