Law Summary

Background and Authority

• Explanation: General Order No. 52 was issued by President Ferdinand E. Marcos as an extension of Proclamation No. 1081, which declared martial law in the Philippines.
• Key Definitions:
  • Martial Law: A state of emergency declared to restore peace and order.
• Cross-References:
  • Proclamation No. 1081, dated September 21, 1972.
  • General Order Nos. 6 and 7, dated September 22 and 23, 1972 respectively.

Prohibition of Firearm Possession

• Explanation: Previous General Orders (No. 6 and No. 7) prohibited the possession and carrying of firearms without permits.
• Key Definitions:
  • High-Powered Firearms: Firearms classified as capable of causing significant harm and are restricted in possession.
• Important Requirements:
  • Inhabitants must possess a legally issued permit to own firearms.
  • Company guards or watchmen are not allowed to possess high-powered firearms.

Authorization for Security Personnel

• Explanation: The order permits licensed security guards and watchmen to acquire and use high-powered firearms under specific conditions.
• Important Requirements:
  • Authorization is contingent on a determination by the Chief of Constabulary regarding lawlessness in specific areas.
  • Firearms acquisition is at the expense of the respective private firms or government agencies.
  • Firearms must be registered with the Philippine Constabulary.
  • Security personnel must undergo adequate training in the care and use of firearms.
  • Supervision by qualified officers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines is mandatory.

Implementation and Regulations

• Explanation: The Chief of Constabulary is tasked with creating rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this order.
• Important Requirements:
  • Regulations must be approved by the Secretary of National Defense.
• Consequences:
  • Modifications to General Orders No. 6 and No. 7 will be enacted to reflect these new provisions.

Conclusion and Certification

• Explanation: The order was officially executed in Manila on March 19, 1975, and signed by President Ferdinand E. Marcos and Executive Secretary Alejandro Melchor.

Key Takeaways

• General Order No. 52 allows licensed security personnel to possess high-powered firearms in areas determined to have increased lawlessness.
• Acquisition and possession of firearms must comply with registration and training requirements under the supervision of military personnel.
• The Chief of Constabulary is responsible for promulgating additional regulations to ensure effective implementation of the order.
• This order modifies previous prohibitions on firearm possession by security personnel, reflecting a shift in policy during martial law.