MANILA – Senator Imee Marcos has expressed concern over the potential rise in criminality, terrorism, arms smuggling, and widespread violence in the 2025 elections.
This comes after the Philippine National Police (PNP) eased restrictions on civilian ownership of high-powered firearms.
The PNP recently amended the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition.
This change allows civilians to obtain licenses for M-14 rifles and other semi-automatic weapons with a caliber of 7.62mm and below.
Marcos criticized the move, stating, “The PNP is shooting itself in the foot and compromising law enforcement efficiency and, above all, public safety.”
She questioned whether the Philippines wants to see a surge in shooting violence similar to that in the U.S. and asked who is lobbying for firearms manufacture and imports.
The senator also pointed out that the PNP’s recent changes to the IRR will complicate the government’s task of decommissioning rebel firearms.
The slow progress in accomplishing this task led Marcos to call for an ongoing investigation through Senate Resolution 321, filed in November last year.
Marcos concluded her statement by expressing sympathy for the families of victims of firearm misuse, stating that penalties offer little consolation to the families of victims, including policemen, soldiers, and civilians.
“When killings occur, penalties for firearm misuse will offer nothing but cold comfort to the families of victims – policemen, soldiers, and civilians included,” the senator said.
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