Perceptions of Local Government Officials of Ilocos Sur on Licensing of Firearms

Abstract

This study attempted to know the perceptions of local government officials of Ilocos Sur on licensing of firearms, specifically the level of perceptions of the local officials on the reasons to license firearms. Furthermore, the researchers wanted to know the status of licensing of firearms and the requirements needed for the issuance of firearms. The barangay chairmen, who composed the greatest bulk of the respondents, were 41-60years old, male, and married. Majority of the respondents had no experience in the licensing offirearms. They thought that the PNP Firearms and Explosive Office remain the proper person/agency to issue license of firearms. This agency was noted by the respondents as the place where licenses of firearms were issued. The top three requirements for the issuance of licenses of firearms were: a) submission ofa negative drug test; b) being a law-abiding citizen ofthe Republic of the Philippines; and c) submission ofa medical certificate and a certificate of attendance in seminars relevant to what he is applying. The respondents strongly agreed on the need to license their firearms for the
following reasons: a) to regulate the use of firearms; and b) to maintain peace and order and to enhance the development of society.