The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday it has not yet received a formal request from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to revoke the firearm licenses registered under Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who is reportedly the subject of manhunt operations in connection with crimes against humanity allegations.
PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Allen Rae Co issued the statement after NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the bureau would seek the cancellation of Dela Rosa’s firearm licenses, describing the senator as “armed and dangerous.”
Matibag earlier said more than a hundred firearms of various types are registered under Dela Rosa’s name.
Co said the PNP would evaluate the matter once a formal request is received.
“Upon receipt of such a request, we will evaluate and act on the same in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and its Revised IRR, swiftly and within the bounds of the law,” Co said.
He explained that a firearm license may be revoked “automatically and immediately” if any of the conditions provided under the law’s implementing rules and regulations is present.
“The existence of any single condition is sufficient to warrant revocation, without need for further proceedings,” Co said.
If the NBI submits a request, he said the Firearms License Revocation and Restoration Board under the PNP Civil Security Group will convene to determine whether any ground for revocation exists.
The PNP said any action on the matter would be based on the law, the evidence submitted, and the findings of the proper board.