The Senate of the Philippines approved on the third and final reading a measure that would strengthen the licensing and registration procedures for acquiring firearms in the country. 

In a plenary session on Monday, the lawmakers approved Senate Bill (SB) 2895, amending Republic Act (RA) 10591, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which was principally authored by Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa. 

In his manifestation, Dela Rosa said the approval of SB 2895 pave the way for improved regulation of illegal firearms, enhance public safety,  and provide for the safe and responsible transfer of firearms in cases of death or incapacity. 

“With the approval of the amendments under the bill, it clarifies licensing and registration procedures which will promote compliance,” he added. 

Dela Rosa, who chairs the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, noted the bill also allows the creation of an amnesty program to encourage the registration of unregistered firearms nationwide. 

“[It] will address all current issues and concerns in the implementation of RA 10591. This will further advocate responsible gun ownership and ensure the government’s right to regulate the same,” Dela Rosa said.

SB 2895 aims to reduce the red tape in issuing firearms licenses and permits. 

The proposed measure authorizes the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to designate a representative to issue a Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence or PTCFOR.

Among the amendments made were not disqualifying license applicants with pending criminal cases unless they involve the use of firearms or ammunition; additional individuals or professionals who are exempted from the requirements of a threat assessment certificate; and fixing the validity of licenses to manufacture and deal firearms at ten years.

In recognition of the pride that sports shooters have brought to the country in several competitions here and abroad, the committee deemed it necessary that they be exempted from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) authority to transport during the election period; and in accordance with the objective of RA 10591 on the proliferation of illegal firearms or weapons, the bill extended the firearms amnesty to three years.

Dela Rosa stressed such amendments “are not about loosening restrictions or promoting the proliferation of firearms.”

“This is to further promote a culture of safety and accountability through the clarification of regulations and the promotion of responsible gun ownership,” he said. 

He added, “this is a step towards a safer country where firearms are respected and used according to the law and for responsible purposes."