I've read many comments concerning the ownership of firearms in the RP by Expats. Law seems to be "NO". But a wife can own. Anyone know much about 'wife' bringing a firearm she owns back to the RP? Example: My wife & I shoot practically every weekend. She owns a couple of firearms herself. Is it possible for her to pass through Customs legally with one or more? I have heard of a 'Gun Club' in the Dumaguete area. Mostly visited by the wealthier Filipinos. Know the name? Contact information? Thanks!! Lakotamoon
Generally importation of firearms is not allowed, except when authorised by law; That is from a section of PI importation law under the caption GOODS WITH PROHIBITIONS, CONTROLS, AND RESTRICTIONS, I would interpret that to mean unless carried by authorized visiting military or LEO and never to be released to the general public. I would check with your closest Philippine consulate for the authoritative answer.
There is a gun range in Sibulan, some of my foreigner friends go there and mix with the locals. My wife had to apply for a license when purchasing a pistol. You can get the application at any of the local gun shops here and they send it to Manila for processing. Interesting question about bring firearms in, hope someone can answer that for you.
Guns! For those interested, have a look at this site. DILG MEMORANDUM ON THE BAN ON FIREARMS AND OTHER DEADLY WEAPONS - CHAN ROBLES VIRTUAL LAW LIBRARY This was about a Gun ban during elections but a search will yield the bits people want. Jack P.
The research I have done on bringing firearms into the PI strongly suggest not to do it, it is difficult at best. However, I have not found the law that says you cannot. If there is no law against, I would guess it would be confiscated at Manila international airport customs and held until you show a license and permit. Most suggest to sell the guns in your home country and buy a new one here. They are expensive here, over US$ 1,000 for a new 9mm.
I am not sure how you would bring a firearm into the country, have it in your pocket, hand luggage or check it through with your bags. Recent international flights I have had have caused me problems when: Singapore I had a Swiss army knife in my checked through luggage, one of the small ones with a cork screw. had to get it out for the customs to check. leaving Australia forget I had small nail clippers in my hand luggage, had to throw it away Small alloy tent pegs forgotten in the bottom of my hand luggage, a small back pack caused big dramas when it went through x ray. Still a hand gun going to the Philippines, might be seen as normal. I would not own a gun here (under wife's name of course). Too many stupid people here I might be tempted to shoot.
?? Carrying a gun owned by your Wife! A little like driving a car on Her license, Can't see anyone getting away with that! Jack P.
