Certification and Approval Process
- Possession of firearms requires a special permit issued by the Chief of Constabulary.
- The applicant must be certified by the Adjutant General of the AFP as a commissioned officer of the Reserve Force.
- The applicant must have previous training or instruction in firearm handling and marksmanship.
Types of Firearms Authorized
- One official sidearm, either a .45 caliber pistol or a .30 caliber carbine, or both, may be authorized at the discretion of the Chief of Constabulary.
- Additional firearms allowed are limited to target model firearms only.
- Souvenir firearms may be possessed only if they are first demilitarized.
- Removed parts from the demilitarized firearms must be deposited with the Philippine Constabulary.
Possession of Firearms Beyond Authorized Types
- Firearms other than those specified can be possessed only under a Regular License.
- Regular Licenses are governed by the general requirements and policies for license issuance.
Handling of Previously Licensed Firearms
- Firearms previously licensed in excess or not authorized by the order must be either:
- Purchased by the Government, or
- Deposited with the Philippine Constabulary.
- These firearms must remain with the Government or Constabulary until the owner qualifies lawfully to possess or disposes of them.
Repeal and Effectivity
- Executive Order No. 279, series of 1940, is expressly repealed.
- The Executive Order is effective immediately upon signing.
Legal Authority and Formalities
- The order is issued under the lawful authority of the President of the Philippines.
- The order was signed on November 5, 1956, in Manila, under the presidency of Ramon Magsaysay.
- The Executive Secretary countersigned the order, formalizing its promulgation.