Sales of firearms affected by new gun control law, say dealers

Sales of firearms and ammunition last year declined by almost 90 percent compared to previous years due to stricter implementation of the Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunitions.

“Sobra kaming natamaan noong 2014. Marami sa firearm dealers ang nagsara. Maraming nagtanggal ng empleyado dahil wala na kaming magawa,” Association of the Firearms and Ammunition Dealers (Afad) president Joy Gutierrez-Jose said during the 23rd Defense and Sporting Arms Show at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

The new gun control law has required all firearm owners, even those with current gun licenses, to obtain a license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF) before they can be allowed to own a gun.

“Siguro yung usual sales, approximately mga 10 percent lang kami kumpara sa dati. Bumaba siya ng mga 90 percent. Gano’n talaga kasama noong 2014,” Jose added.

But Jose said Afad is working together with the Philippine National Police to make the requirements in applying for gun licenses “reasonable.”

She said AFAD was waiting for PNP officer in charge Deputy Director Gen. Leonardo Espina to approve the amended implementing rules and regulations of RA 10591.

PNP firearms and explosives office chief Senior Supt. Elmo Sarona earlier said the FEO had processed 50,428 LTOPF since May 6. There are 500,000 registered firearm holders while there are 1.6 million firearms in the country.

Jose also urged gun owners to apply for or renew their licenses at the LTOPF caravan set up by Afad and PNP at SM Megamall.

Gun owners may also take neuropsychiatric and drug tests and get directorate for intelligence clearance at the booths set up by the PNP. RC