Firearms registration extended until September

By Jeehan V. Fernandez

The Police Regional Office (PRO-6) has lengthened the registration of unlicensed firearms until September 30, 2005 .

The new executive order extending the period for surrendering and licensing of “illegal” guns is hoped to encourage and give opportunity to the holders of loose firearms in obtaining the required license as well as increase the Firearms Ballistics Data Bank of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

To note, the check on illegal firearms was implemented only for six months since the previous order had undergone amendments on its implementing rules and regulations and the existence of Commission on Elections ( Comelec ) gun ban last year.

The extension will give a chance to those not yet able to take advantage of the campaign. A 50 percent discount on fees will be given to lawmen and other individuals if proper documents are presented.

Likewise, only those government staff with Civil Security Group appointments will be given such privilege. Contractual employees and those appointed by the local executives are not included while senior citizens with valid ID cards can avail of 20 percent discount.  

PRO-6 director Chief Supt. Doroteo A. Reyes II stressed that he had instructed the city and provincial directors to intensify the campaign on registration of loose firearms in their areas of responsibility.