The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reaffirmed its strict enforcement of firearm licensing and registration rules, reminding all gun owners to comply with legal requirements amid renewed public scrutiny of firearm disclosures involving public officials.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said firearm ownership remains a regulated privilege under Philippine law and must be properly licensed, registered, and regularly renewed through the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office.
“The Philippine National Police reminds all firearm owners that ownership of firearms is a regulated privilege under the law,” Nartatez said, stressing that compliance covers both legal possession and proper safekeeping.
He added that gun owners must also observe strict standards on storage, documentation, and lawful use, underscoring that transparency is essential to public safety and accountability.
“We urge strict compliance with all requirements on safe storage, documentation, and lawful possession,” he said.
Nartatez warned that failure to properly license or document firearms may result in both administrative and criminal liability under existing laws, regardless of the owner’s status or position.
“Regardless of status or position, all gun owners are subject to the same rules. The PNP enforces firearm laws equally and without exception,” he said.
The reminder comes as authorities continue to emphasize tighter enforcement of regulatory measures aimed at ensuring responsible firearm ownership nationwide.