PNP chief orders creation of gun permit hubs in Visayas, Mindanao

MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered the creation of gun permit renewal centers in the Visayas and Mindanao.

The measure is part of the PNP's push to streamline and make the process of renewing gun permits more accessible.

"When you need a permit to carry (PTC), you have to go to Camp Crame because it can only be obtained there. It seems this is good for those in Metro Manila but it would be difficult for those living in the Visayas and Mindanao. How about those who really have valid threats to their lives who are living in these far areas and need a PTC?" Marbil said in Filipino on the sidelines of the Tactical, Survival and Arms Expo in Mandaluyong City on Thursday.

He said he has ordered the Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) to put up these hubs within two months.

"Initially we are looking at one in Visayas and one in Mindanao. It's also hard to put up so many facilities because number one, we need people to man these offices. I'll leave it to the FEO to carry out my orders," he said.

He said he also wants the process of renewal of the License To Own and Possess Firearm (LTOPF) and Firearm Registration (FR) for gun owners to be fully computerized.

To date, applicants still have to personally go to Camp Crame to avail of this service.

"As long as it is for renewal, we want applicants to just avail of neuro and drug tests in accredited testing centers. We don't want them to go all the way to Camp Crame. If we have it computerized, the process will be digitalized and you can get your permits right away. We don't want it to take so long," he said.

Marbil said this is part of the PNP's measures to raise awareness on the importance of responsible firearms ownership. (PNA)