MANILA -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it has so far received 246 requests for firearms licenses from religious leaders.
In a press briefing in Camp Crame, PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde noted that the number is composed of 188 applications from Catholic priests while the rest were filed by pastors and leaders of other religious denominations.
The PNP chief said the permits would be handed down to applicants who are duly qualified and subject to compliance with requirements.
Albayalde also reiterated his call for priests, as well as other private individuals at risk, to report threats to their safety and coordinate with local police units.
He also said the PNP is willing to provide firearms proficiency training for interested parties.
Albayalde explained that like other private individuals applying for a License to own and possess firearms (LTOPF) and permits to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFORs), priests are entitled to own up to two firearms depending on the category applied.
Automatic rifles and so-called long firearms are not covered by the permits. (PNA)
