The Philippine National Police (PNP) has suspended the issuance of permits for the transport of explosive materials in any part of the country amid reports that some of them would end up on the hands of communist rebels.
PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas said their decision to temporarily suspend the permits was based on the instruction of President Duterte, adding that suspension took effect on January 1 this year.
“It is temporarily suspended until the President issues a directive that requires clearance from the local police and military units (where the explosive materials would be transported),” said Sinas in a press briefing at Camp Crame.
The reason for the suspension, according to Sinas, are reports that some of the explosive materials that were supposed to be transported to mining areas were being taken by the local communist rebels.
The explosive materials are then being used to carry out roadside bombings to attack government troopers.
Sinas said they are now crafting a policy in connection with the protocols that must be followed before any permit to transport explosive materials is issued.
“We know that there are some (industries) that would be affected but we have to follow the instruction of the President,” said Sinas.