Question & AnswerQ&A (PNP MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 2011-003)
The primary purpose is to establish guidelines on the mandatory testing and stenciling of locally manufactured and imported firearms for licensing and to maintain a reliable ballistic database to support forensic investigation and regulate firearms control.
The PNP Crime Laboratory (PNP CL) is designated as the Office of Primary Responsibility (OPR) for the conduct of firearms testing, stenciling, maintenance of ballistic database, and storage of test bullets and cartridge cases.
Firearm testing is the conduct of test firing of a firearm before a bullet recovery system to retrieve its test bullets and cartridge cases and to determine the firearm's serviceability and functionality.
The standard ammunition used for firearm testing shall be full metal jacket and copper coated ammunition.
Off-site testing and stenciling are allowed only for manufacturers with a production output of not less than 500 firearms per month and must be conducted at an approved site.
The fee for testing and stenciling is P350.00 per firearm covering ammunition, supplies, and materials. If the manufacturer/importer/dealer provides five rounds of the prescribed ammunition, the fee is reduced to P250.00 per firearm.
The certificate is validated by the testing Forensic Firearms Examiner, approved by the Chief of FAID, and noted by the Director of PNP CL or authorized representatives.
The manufacturer must request testing in writing, provide the ballistic tube with cotton or water tank, cooperate with PNP CL and FEO-CSG coordination, provide accommodation and transportation for personnel, and pay the required fees.