Ease gun ownership rules, VACC asks PNP

Saying that lawlessness and criminal activity will escalate with the recent abolition of the death penalty law by Mrs. Arroyo, the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) is calling on the Philippine National Police to relax the strict regulations on firearm ownership and allow more civilians to own and carry guns for their protection.

"We are now pushing for this after the abolition of the death penalty. Government has removed the penalty against criminality and we now have to protect ourselves," said VACC chairman Dante Jimenez.

"We call on the PNP, since wala nang death penalty that they must simplify rules for the ownership and carrying of firearms. There is now a present threat with the lifting of the death penalty," Jimenez said.

Under the strict regulations of the PNP under its Firearms and Explosives Division, a permit to carry firearm outside of residence (PTCFOR) which is valid for one year, is only issued to applicants who can present documented proof that his life is under threat.

In addition, the PTCFOR applicant must also make a written request addressed to the chief of the PNP listing the qualifications to possess the firearm and the reasons for the need to carry it outside of residence; present an authenticated photocopy of current firearm license; present the details of "threat" which should be issued by the Chief of Police/Provincial or City Directors and duly validated by the Chief of the Regional Intelligence and Investigation Division, pass a drug test, secure a clearance from the PNP Directorate for Intelligence Clearance; pass a neuro-psychiatric test, secure a gun safety seminar certificate, and present a National Bureau of Investigation clearance.

Aside from appealing to the PNP to make the legal ownership of guns easier for civilians, the VACC is also appealing to gun stores and suppliers to make the prices of firearms affordable so that more people could buy.

The VACC and other gun ownership advocacy groups led by the Peaceful and Responsible Owners of Guns (PROGUN) held a shooting activity at the PB Dionisio range in Quezon City yesterday to kick-off what the VACC said will be a nationwide campaign to educate the public about self-defense and the safe and proper use of guns.

"It will now be an aggressive campaign against crime. Arming citizens against criminals is one measure we can adopt following the abolition of the death penalty. This will be a nationwide activity. We will educate people and make sure that they know how to protect themselves," said Jimenez.

The VACC added that police will have its hands full going after criminals who will become emboldened with the absence of the death penalty. It said citizens who will be trained in the use of firearms, can support the police.

"Let us not allow criminals to roam. Now without the death penalty, an ordinary criminal can easily kill a police officer. We will be helping the police keep our streets and our homes safe," said Jimenez.