PNP centralizes processing of gun licenses

Pro-Gun opposes PNP CSG shutdown MANILA - Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Alan Purisima has closed the satellite offices of the Civil Security Group (CSG) tasked to process the licensing of firearms across the country. In a memorandum obtained by ABS-CBN, the offices were locked down because of a new licensing system in place. PNP Public Information Office head Chief Superintendent Reuben Theodore Sindac said there were anomalies reported from the CSG's satellite offices. "Ang inaatake natin dito yung mga dubious na licensed firearms holders," he said. Gun owners will now have to troop to the PNP's headquarters in Camp Crame for license renewal and other processes. Firearm advocate group Pro-Gun opposed the move. "Napakamahal ng pamasahe papunta dito sa Metro Manila. It's not a joke no na bumili ka ng plane ticket o mag-barko ka papuntang Metro Manila," said Atty. Ernesto Tabujara, president of Pro-Gun. Sindac, however, said, "Kung responsable kang gun owner, gagawin mo ang lahat para maipa-renew mo yung lisensya mo." -- From a report by Anthony Taberna, ABS-CBN News; ANC