A group of gun enthusiasts in Naga City, Camarines Sur has expressed concern over a new policy that allows civilians to own semi-automatic high-powered firearms.

The group said making the firearms more accessible to civilians may pose risks, as these weapons have the potential to be used in crimes and other violent acts, similar to situations observed in other countries.

"Ang pinaka-number one na worry natin, yung mapunta sa hindi dapat puntahan — yung makahawak, yung mga dapat hindi makahawak — yun yung napakalaking worry dyan lalung-lalo na 5.56[MM]. Kung yung mga small firearms, pistol lang at ano eh laking problema na pag napunta sa kanila lalo na ‘to," Benjie Enciso, a gun enthusiast, said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced that it has made minor amendments to the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

“Puwede na pong magmay-ari ang isang private citizen ng small arms na 7.62 mm pababa po provided na hindi po ito capable ng fully automatic burst of fire,” PNP spokesperson, PCo. Jean Fajardo, said in a report by GMA Integrated News.

She said there are enough safeguards in place to ensure that the privilege will not be abused.

Among these safeguards are the qualifications the government has set to own the guns, including Filipino citizenship, employment, and being of legal age. Other requirements include income tax returns, police clearance, psychiatric and drug tests, as well as training.

Fajardo said the amended policy is seen to promote responsible ownership as owners will be encouraged to register their high powered guns.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also said the new policy will help the military in its efforts to enhance the reserve force.

This privilege to own these guns was suspended during the previous administration due to concerns about potential misuse by terrorists and government opponents. 

The PNP assures the public that strict actions will be taken in accordance with the law should abuse of authority be observed in the implementation of the amended IRR.

"Kailangan, kung bibili ka, dapat meron ka na munang LTOPF [or] yung license to own firearms — so at the same time yung nagbebenta ganun din so ganun siya kahigpit," PLTCOL. Chester Pomar, spokesperson for the Naga City Police Office, said.