Capitol guards have unlicensed firearms

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Some provincial guards of the Iloilo Capitol are reporting for duty with unlicensed guns, or with un-renewed licenses, as confirmed by lawyer Soteo Gardose, chief of the provincial guards.

Gardose's statement came after the Commission on Audit (revealed on its latest audited report that 92 guns owned by the provincial government have un-renewed licenses.

He however clarified that the Capitol has only 83 assorted firearms, but only 72 of these are serviceable, 30 of which are unlicensed due to lack of supporting documents.

"Most of these 30 unlicensed guns are vintage because these were purchased way back in the 1980s, although some of these could still be used," he said, adding that firearms' licenses are being renewed every two years.

Gardose said the 72 guns are being used by 78 provincial guards, including himself, during on-duty but leave these at the guard office during off -duty.

Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr. had ordered Gardose to renew the licenses of these guns to prevent any complications in the future.  (FREEMAN)