Lifting of PTCFOR suspension urged

Saying the crime situation has not improved since the suspension in the issuance of permits to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFORs) in January, pro-gun advocates batted yesterday that it be lifted so that citizens could protect themselves against criminals.

Gun owners group Peaceful Responsible Owners of Guns (Pro-Gun) chairman Mike Melchor and secretary general Andy Apostol said the ban on the issuance of PTCFORs has led to the emergence of vigilante and other crime groups.

"After six months, the question is has the crime situation improved since civilians were banned from carrying firearms?" Melchor asked.

Apostol noted that some people have resorted to vigilantism because of the apparent failure of the Philippine National Police to curb criminality, contrary to the claims of PNP chief Director General Hermogenes Ebdane Jr.

"It has been happening, there are incidents of drug pushers or users being killed by unknown groups. There is more lawlessness. We see that the citizenry is frustrated over the situation and then you are seeing them taking the law in their own hands already," Apostol said.

Apostol suggested that law-abiding gunholders be tapped to help solve the problem.

PNP community relations chief Director Ricardo de Leon clarified that the PNP has been accepting applications for PTCFORs but gun owners have not come forward to comply with the requirements. — Christina Me