PNP streamlines firearm registrations

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday announced that it has implemented a series of reforms to streamline firearm registration and licensing procedures while enhancing cybersecurity and accessibility.

The shift to a more advanced and fortified platform follows a May 2024 cyberattack which exposed vulnerabilities in the previous system.

“We want firearm licensing and registration to be both secure and accessible. By harnessing technology, we are making government transactions faster, safer and more convenient for the people we serve,” PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said.

Key enhancements to the process include SIM card-based client credentials; regional kiosk installations; integration with the National Police Clearance system; a user-friendly mobile app and additional e-payment gateways.

It also includes an expanded notification system; a unified database and an enhanced system interface.

The PNP stressed that the upgraded system now features anti-malware protection, web reputation monitoring, activity tracking, device control, a web application firewall, intrusion prevention and two-factor authentication via Google Authenticator and email verification.

The PNP’s firearm licensing service, under its Firearms and Explosives Office, serves more than 800,000 clients nationwide annually.