PNP Chief Opposes Gun Ban Ahead Sona
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III on Monday voiced his opposition to enforcing a gun ban during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming State of the Nation Address (Sona). He argued that the gun ban would only impact licensed firearm owners, not criminals who carry guns illegally.
During a press briefing, Torre said he plans to recommend against the gun ban to the Department of the Interior and Local Government. He emphasized that criminals do not follow these bans, while responsible gun owners are the ones affected.
Gun Ban Only Targets Legal Owners
“Every day, there’s a gun ban. Try carrying a gun without a license and you’ll know the effects of gun ban, whether it’s declared or not,” Torre said in Filipino.
He explained, “What I’m saying is we’ll have to examine because the gun ban will only affect legal gun owners or responsible gun owners, who take their time to get a license and take a drug test in FEO (Firearms and Explosive Office) to secure LTOPF (license to own and possess firearms). Even if there’s no gun ban, we believe that the criminals carry guns with them always.”
According to Torre, police units already operate as if a gun ban is always in effect. Checkpoints will be set up to inspect firearms and licenses. Those with valid licenses will be allowed to proceed as it is their right.
PNP Preparations for Sona Security
For the upcoming Sona, the PNP announced it will deploy 11,949 police officers nationwide across various areas to ensure security. A command center will be set up at the Batasan Police Station, alongside a multi-agency coordinating center at the Quezon City Police District headquarters in Camp Karingal.
Gen. Torre’s stance highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing public safety and the rights of legal gun owners, especially during high-profile events like the Sona.
He concluded, “The short answer there is I’ll consult first and recommend against the declaration. Because I don’t believe that legal gun owners are a threat to society in general. That’s why they are legal gun owners.”
For more news and updates on gun ban enforcement, visit Filipinokami.com.
