House OKs bill setting validity of firearm license, registration to five to 10 years

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives passed on final reading the bill fixing the validity period of firearm licenses and registration to five to 10 years. 

During its session on Monday, the lower chamber approved House Bill No. 10610, which seeks to amend the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.”

Under the measure, the validity period of a license to own and possess a firearm to five to ten years, at the option of the licensee, which shall be reckoned from the birthday of the said licensee, unless sooner revoked or suspended. 

The same rule applies to the validity period of the firearm registration. 

The measure likewise provides that the Permit to Carry Outside of Residence or Place of Business shall be valid for two years from the date of approval of the application, unless sooner revoked or suspended. 

Persons who are considered to be in imminent danger by the nature of their profession, occupation, or business shall be exempted from the requirement of a Threat Assessment Certificate.