MANILA – The Military Ordinariate of the Philippines, led by Bishop Oscar Jaime Florencio, has publicly declared opposition to the Philippine National Police's (PNP) recent policy allowing civilian ownership of semi-automatic rifles. This statement was made during an interview over Church-run Radyo Veritas on Saturday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the idea of civilians possessing semi-automatic rifles, or any form of rifle, is fundamentally flawed, particularly in a country with limited resources like the Philippines. He emphasized the potential for increased problems and questioned the necessity of such firepower among the civilian population, suggesting instead that these weapons should be reserved for authorities. The bishop drew parallels to the United States, pointing out the frequent mass shootings as a consequence of lenient gun ownership laws.
The PNP's decision comes after amendments to the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 10591, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which now permits civilians to register firearms up to cal. 7.62mm semi-automatic rifles and those of lower calibers. This development has sparked a debate among lawmakers, with Senator Francis Tolentino advocating for careful selection of individuals eligible to own such weapons.
Meanwhile, Senators Imee Marcos and Risa Hontiveros have expressed concerns regarding the potential for increased criminality, arms smuggling, and violence, especially in light of the upcoming 2025 midterm elections. The controversy surrounding the PNP's policy change underscores the ongoing debate over gun control and its implications for public safety in the Philippines.