PNP not picking on Erwin Tulfo

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is not picking on broadcaster Erwin Tulfo as authorities have ordered the surrender of his firearms, an official said yesterday.

It is standard protocol to remind gun owners of their obligation to renew their license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF) and surrender their firearms during the process, PNP spokesperson Lt. Col. Bernard Banac said.

“Hindi naman. This is done with all responsible gun owners in the entire country,” Banac said when asked if Tulfo was being singled out over his expired LTOPF.

The PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) sent an order to Tulfo on Thursday, directing him to turn over his firearms as his LTOPF expired in May.

Tulfo has expressed his intention to renew his license.

Banac said it is likely that Tulfo’s expired license was highlighted following his outburst against Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista, which drew the ire of many uniformed personnel.

Tulfo and his two brothers lost their police security escorts following his rants against Bautista.