PNP Policies on Firearms Possession and Carrying

Firearms possession and carrying is a privilege, not a right, conditioned by government regulations.
The proliferation of loose firearms has caused significant public safety threats, including violent crimes and suppression of electoral processes.
Coordinated national efforts such as the National Summit on Firearms Control and Executive Order No. 817 seek to control firearms.

To establish rationalized policies governing the possession, bearing, and carrying of firearms, enhancing public safety and regulatory efficiency.

All firearms licenses remain valid until expiration unless revoked or cancelled.
Existing permits to carry firearms outside residence (PTCFOR) issued before January 10, 2010, and suspended until June 9, 2010, are recognized until their expiration or earlier termination.

Only Filipino citizens may apply for firearm licenses, excluding crew-served and military-class weapons.
Submission of a validated neuro-psychiatric evaluation, drug test report, and proof of attendance at a PNP-accredited gun safety seminar is mandatory.
The neuro-psychiatric test must be conducted or validated by authorized PNP personnel; drug testing by PNP Crime Laboratory; gun safety seminars by PNP or accredited gun clubs.
Ballistic testing and serial number stenciling by the Crime Laboratory is required every four years for license renewal.
Ownership of gun safety deposit boxes or similar secure storage is encouraged.

General prohibition on carrying firearms outside residence unless holder possesses a valid PTCFOR.
A holder may carry only one licensed short firearm with a PTCFOR at any given time.
Law enforcement officers (PNP, AFP, other LEAs) may carry licensed firearms in official duties while in uniform, with proper authorization and license.
Carrying government-issued firearms outside official duties or in civilian attire by LEAs requires special permits (PTCFOR-LEA) issued by Chief PNP with endorsements and certification.
Local chief executives (provincial governors, city/municipal mayors, barangay captains) retain rights to possess and carry firearms within their jurisdiction as prescribed by law.
Firearms carried under PTCFOR must be subject to ballistic testing or accompanied by certification thereof.
Certain high-ranking officials (President, Vice President, Justices, Cabinet Secretaries, legislators, LEA members) are exempt from needing proof of actual threat to apply for PTCFOR.
Specific guidelines on how firearms must be carried or concealed are prescribed to prevent unauthorized display.
Restrictions include prohibiting carrying firearms in places of worship, public entertainment venues, and other public or commercial locations.
PTCFOR is non-transferable and must be presented with corresponding licenses or permits.

Persons carrying firearms openly or outside permissible conditions must present appropriate licenses and permits upon request by law enforcement.

The PNP shall actively promote establishment and enforcement of gun-free zones in critical areas, including schools, places of worship, business districts, and tourist spots.
Only law enforcement personnel on official duty and in prescribed uniform may bear firearms in these zones.
Regular permits to carry firearms outside residence are not valid within gun-free zones.

Carrying firearms outside residence without valid PTCFOR results in immediate license cancellation.
Violations including bringing firearms into prohibited places also cause license cancellation and invalidation of PTCFOR.
Habitual offenders face temporary or permanent disqualification from possessing or carrying firearms.
Upon discretion of the Chief PNP, cancellation or disqualification statuses may be reviewed or licenses reinstated or renewed subject to conditions.

The Civil Security Group and PTCFOR Secretariat are tasked to create operational guidelines for enforcement.
Police Community Relations Group and Public Information Office to sustain advocacy for gun-free zones.

Previous directives inconsistent with this circular are modified.
The circular takes effect 15 days after filing at the University of the Philippines Law Center in compliance with the Revised Administrative Code.