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LRT Central Station

lrt central station map
LRT Central Station Map | Image Credit: Lahi

 

The LRT Central Station, as its name suggests, is the main transportation hub for a number of important establishments such as the Manila City Hall, Central Post Office, National Museum of Fine Arts; Schools such as PNU, PLM, Letran in Manila.

Central Station is near bus terminals going to Alabang, Cavite, and Laguna. Also nearby are shuttle and jeepney terminals going to various points, as well as the Lawton station of the Pasig River Ferry Service.

The LRT Central Station is located south of the Carriedo LRT station and North of the LRT United Nations station.

The LRT-1 currently has 20 stations spanning from Roosevelt Station in Quezon City to Baclaran Station in ParaƱaque City.

The start of construction of the project extending the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1) to Cavite will commence next month (May).

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it would have a ceremony on May 6 to signal the start of actual works of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension Project.

The Department of Transportation in February said the project, which will stretch LRT-1 over 33 kilometers from Roosevelt in Quezon City to Niog, Bacoor in Cavite City,  would start this month (April).

Once the extension is built and completed, travel time from Bacoor to Central Station in Manila will be down to 45 minutes, and to Roosevelt Station in one hour and 10 minutes,  even during rush hours.(philstar)

You may want to read:

Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination Results

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December 2019 Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination Results 

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 59 out of 67 passed the Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination given by the Board of Real Estate Service in Manila last December 8, 2019 (Written) and February 17-21 up to February 26-28, 2020 (Revalida).


46 Schools participated in the examination. Saint Louis University has the most number of examinees with 7.

The members of the Board of Real Estate Service who gave the licensure examination are Ofelia C. Binag, Chairman; Rafael M. Fajardo, Jose Arnold M. Tan and Pilar M. Torres-Banaag, Members.

The results were released in three (3) working days after the last day of examination.

Starting March 6, 2020, registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done on-line.  Please go to www.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration.  Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), 2 pieces passport sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps and 1 piece short brown envelope.  Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examination WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.


April 2019 Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination Results

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 43 out of 45 passed the Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination given by the Board of Real Estate Service in Manila last March 31, 2019 (Written) and April 23-25, 2019 (Revalida).

The members of the Board of Real Estate Service who gave the licensure examination are Ofelia C. Binag, Chairman; Rafael M. Fajardo, Jose Arnold M. Tan and Pilar M. Torres-Banaag (inhibited), Members.

The results were released in two (2) working days after the last day of examination.

From May 2 and 3, 2019 registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done on-line.  Please go to www.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration.  Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), 2 pieces passport sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps and 1 piece short brown envelope.  Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examination WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.

List of those who passed

Topnotchers


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Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination Top 10 Examinees

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December 2019 Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination Top Examinees

The successful examinees who garnered the seven (7) highest places in the December 2019 Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination are the following:

1st Place: Rhodora Lentejas Dapula 83.80%
                 UP-Visayas-Tacloban City

2nd place: Charity Cecilia Mabborang Cabbuag 83.00%
                  University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao

3rd Place: Lourdes Bernadette Banzon Carlos 82.80%
                 De La Salle University-Manila

4th Place: Ana Liza Asis Castro 81.10%
                 De La Salle University-Manila

                 Artemio Olarte Laroya 81.10%
                 Saint Louis College of San Fernando

5th Place: Jeser Medalle Revalde 80.40%
                 University of the Visayas-Cebu City

6th Place: Eden April Alemania Dayrit 80.30%
                 De La Salle University-Manila

7th Place: Jackson Reyes Lim Jr. 80.10%
                 De La Salle University-Manila

                 Korina Christiene Feliciano Reyes 80.10%
                 University of the Philippines-Angeles City


The successful examinees who garnered the five (5) highest places in the March 2019 Real Estate Consultant Licensure Examination are the following:

1st Place - Chrysler Bayan Acebu 87.90%
                   University of the Visayas - Cebu City

2nd Place - Efren Bergado Domagas 87.70%
                   Saint Louis University

3rd Place - Marissa Pulido Villamil 87%
                   Saint Vincent College - Dipolog City

4th Place - Dorothy May Rayela Nubla 86.90%
                  Ateneo de Manila University

5th Place - Augusto Babula Agosto 85.80%
                  Quezon Colleges of Southern Philippines


List of those who passed

What are the Power and Duties of the Provincial Vice-Governor?

provincial vice-governor
Power and Duties of the Provincial Vice-Governor | Image Credit: PIA Cordillera

 

16 days left before the May 13, 2019 National and Local Elections 2019, have you already made your choice?

Before choosing your candidates, check out the job description of your next Vice-Governor.

Vote wisely.

 

What are the Power and Duties of the Provincial Vice-Governor?

1. Be the presiding officer of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and sign all warrants drawn
on the provincial treasury for all expenditures appropriated for the operation the
Sangguniang Panlalawigan

2. Subject to civil service law, rules and regulations, appoint all officials and
employees of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, except those whose manner of appointment is
specifically provided in the local government code.

3. Assume the office of the Governor for the unexpired term of the latter in the event
of permanent vacancy.

The Three Crystals of Government

The Three Crystals of Government are as follows:

 

1. Crystal of Congress – Congress is held by the Senate and House of Representatives. It has the power to make laws;

2. Crystal of Judiciary – The Judiciary is held by the Supreme Court and lower courts. It has the power to judge if the law is right and its implementation;

3. Crystal of Executive – The Executive is held by the President, Vice President, and Government Agencies. It has the power to enforce the law.

None of them is in control of everything. When all these powers are held by one person, we are in trouble.(lahi)

 

What are the Qualifications of a President:

1. Natural-born citizen of the Philippines;
2. Registered voter;
3. Able to read and write;
4. At least 40 years of age on the day of the election;
5. A resident of the Philippines for at least 10 years immediately preceding the election.

 

The Vice-President shall have the same qualifications as the President.

 

What are the Qualifications of a Senator:

1. Natural-born citizen of the Philippines;
2. At least 35 years of age on the day of the election;
3. Able to read and write;
4. Registered voter;
5. Resident of the Philippines for not less than 2 years immediately preceding the election.

 

What are Qualifications of District Representatives:

1. Natural-born citizen of the Philippines;
2. At least 25 years of age on the day of the election;
3. Able to read and write;
4. A registered voter in the district in which he shall be elected;
5. A resident of the district in which he shall be elected for a period not less than 1 year immediately preceding the day of the election.

 

What are the Qualifications of a member of the Supreme Court:

1. Must be a natural-born citizen of the Philippines;
2. Must at least be 40 years of age;
3. Must have been for 15 years or more a judge of a lower court or engaged in the practice
of law in the Philippines; and
4. A person of proven competence , integrity, probity, and independence.

September 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination results

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September 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination results


The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 3,285 out of 4,891 Registered Electrical Engineers and 2,634 out of 4,424 Registered Master Electricians successfully passed the Electrical Engineer Licensure Examinations given by the Board of Electrical Engineering in Manila, Baguio, Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tacloban and Zamboanga last August and this September 2019.


444 Electrical Engineering schools participated in this examination. Vocational School has the most number of examinees with 198 followed by Secondary school and TUP-Manila with 131 and 107 examinees respectively.

The members of the Board of Electrical Engineering who gave the licensure examinations are Engr. Francis V. Mapile, Chairman and Engr. Jaime V. Mendoza, Member.

The results were released in four (4) working days after the last day of examinations.

From September 26 to October 9, 2019, registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done on-line.  Please go to http://online.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration.  Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), 2 pieces passport sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps and 1 piece short brown envelope.  Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examinations WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.


Related:


April 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination results 


The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 1,600 out of 2,548 Registered Electrical Engineers and 2,093 out of 3,728 Registered Master Electricians successfully passed the Electrical Engineer Licensure Examinations given by the Board of Electrical Engineering in Manila, Baguio, Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena and Tacloban this April 2019.

The members of the Board of Electrical Engineering who gave the licensure examinations are Engr. Francis V. Mapile, Chairman and Engr. Jaime V. Mendoza, Member.

The results were released in three (3) working days after the last day of examinations.

From May 6 to May 10, 2019, registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be done on-line.  Please go to online.prc.gov.ph and follow instructions for initial registration.  Those who will register are required to bring the following: downloaded duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, notice of admission (for identification only), 2 pieces passport sized pictures (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of documentary stamps and 1 piece short brown envelope.  Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examinations WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.

List of Successful Examinees (Electrical Engineer and Registered Master Electrician)

Top Performing Schools (Electrical Engineer)

Top Ten Examinees (Electrical Engineer)

Top Performing Schools (Registered Master Electrician)

Top Ten Examinees (Registered Master Electrician)


Registered Master Electrician Licensure Examination Top Performing Schools

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The top performing schools in the April 2019 Registered Master Electrician Licensure Examination are the following:

Top 1 - De la Salle University - Lipa
            Total Number of Examinees - 96
            Total Nunber Passed - 95
            Percentage Passed - 98.96%
       
Top 2 - Mindanao State University Gen.Santos City
            Total Number of Examinees - 29
            Total Nunber Passed - 27
            Percentage Passed - 93.10%

Top 3 - Laguna State Polytechnic University - Sta. Cruz
            Total Number of Examinees - 56
            Total Nunber Passed - 50
            Percentage Passed - 89.29%

Top 4 - Bohol Island State University - Tagbilaran
            Total Number of Examinees - 90
            Total Nunber Passed - 80
            Percentage Passed - 88.89%

List of Passers

Top Ten Examinees

Top Schools
        

Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination Top Performing Schools

On
September 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination Top Performing Schools

The top-performing schools in the August-September 2019 Registered Electrical Engineer Licensure
Examination are the following:

With 25 or more examinees and with at least 85% passing percentage.

No.1 University of Batangas
         Total Number of Examinees: 55
         Total Number Passed: 55
         Percentage Passed: 100%

         University of the Philippines - Diliman
         Total Number of Examinees: 33
         Total Number Passed: 33
         Percentage Passed: 100%

No.2 University of Saint Louis - Tuguegarao
         Total Number of Examinees: 52
         Total Number Passed: 51
         Percentage Passed: 98.08%

No.3 Camarines Norte State College - DAET
         Total Number of Examinees: 48
         Total Number Passed: 47
         Percentage Passed: 97.92%

         University of Santo Tomas
         Total Number of Examinees: 96
         Total Number Passed: 94
         Percentage Passed: 97.92%

No.4 Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sto.Tomas
         Total Number of Examinees: 43
         Total Number Passed: 42
         Percentage Passed: 97.67%

No.5 Bohol Island State University - Tagbilaran
         Total Number of Examinees: 73
         Total Number Passed: 69
         Percentage Passed: 94.52%

No.6 Marinduque State College - BOAO
         Total Number of Examinees: 27
         Total Number Passed: 25
         Percentage Passed: 92.59%

No.7 Saint Louis University
         Total Number of Examinees: 68
         Total Number Passed: 60
         Percentage Passed: 88.24%

No.8 Rizal Technological University
         Total Number of Examinees: 94
         Total Number Passed: 82
         Percentage Passed: 87.23%

No.9 Cavite State University - Rosario
         Total Number of Examinees: 39
         Total Number Passed: 34
         Percentage Passed: 87.18%

No.10 University of Southeastern Philippines
          Total Number of Examinees: 37
          Total Number Passed: 32
          Percentage Passed: 86.49%


Related:


   



The top-performing schools in the April 2019 Registered Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination are the following:


Top 1 - UP-Los Banos
             Total Number of Examinees - 33
             Total Nunber Passed - 33
             Percentage Passed - 100%

Top 2 - University of Batangas
             Total Number of Examinees - 34
             Total Nunber Passed - 33
             Percentage Passed - 97.06%

Top 3 - Mindanao State University - Gen.Santos City
             Total Number of Examinees - 28
             Total Nunber Passed - 27
             Percentage Passed - 96.43%

Top 4 - Cagayan State University - Tuguegarao
             Total Number of Examinees - 46
             Total Nunber Passed - 44
             Percentage Passed - 96.65%

Top 5 - Mapua University - Manila
             Total Number of Examinees - 33
             Total Nunber Passed - 31
             Percentage Passed - 93.94%

Top 6 - Isabela State University - Ilagan
             Total Number of Examinees - 28
             Total Nunber Passed - 26
             Percentage Passed - 92.86%

Top 7 - Central Mindanao University
             Total Number of Examinees - 36
             Total Nunber Passed - 33
             Percentage Passed - 91.67%

             Saint Louis University
             Total Number of Examinees - 36
             Total Nunber Passed - 33
             Percentage Passed - 91.67%

Top 8 - Batangas State University - Alangilan
             Total Number of Examinees - 68
             Total Nunber Passed - 59
             Percentage Passed - 86.76%

List of successful examinees

Top Examinees

Registered Master Electrician Licensure Examination Top 10

On
The successful examinees who garnered the 5 highest places in the April 2019 Registered Master Electrician Licensure Examination are the following:

1st Place - Kenneth Martija Bolima 94%
                 De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Aldwin Plata Mercado 94%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

2nd Place - Vincent Jolo Sarmiento Areta 92.50%
                   De la Salle University - Lipa

3rd Place - Jeric Bala Abuyan 92%
                   Southern Luzon State University-Lucban

                  Andrea Alzate Bautista 92%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Mirabel Buri Dayo 92%
                  Secondary School

                  Jamila Castillo Paco 92%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Joshua Merlas Pesay 92%
                  Bohol Island State University - Tagbilaran

4th Place - Johnrev Vergara Alday 91.50%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Jim Cheng San Jose Amon 91.50%
                  Adamson University

                  Allan Landicho de Silva 91.50%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Chris Warren Chavez Manalo 91.50%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Ronjan Comedia Quirobenes 91.50%
                  University of Eastern Philippines - Catarman

                  Kervin Shaider Olivete San Juan 91.50%
                  Secondary School

                  Al Del Rosario Sitchon 91.50%
                  Technological University of the Philippines - Visayas

5th Place - Pamela Albasin Abian 91%
                  Bohol Island State University - Tagbilaran
           
                  Jason Christopher Panisales Aguillon 91%
                  New Era University

                  Juniel Martinez Amores 91%
                  Jose Rizal Memorial State University - Dapitan
 
                  Emmanuel Jose Calanog Concordia 91%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Felipe R-Dy Arante Contreras 91%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Rene Jade Corpuz Malana 91%
                  Cagayan State University - Lal-lo

                  Michael Papa Manalo 91%
                  Cavite State University - Rosario

                  Kim Cedrick Sayas Oliva 91%
                  De la Salle University - Lipa

                  Ralph Villazon Realista 91%
                  Surigao State College of Technology

List of successful examinees

Top 10 Examinees

Top Schools

September 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination Top 10

On
September 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination Top 10 examinees


The successful examinees who garnered the 10 highest places in the August-September 2019 Registered Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination are the following:

1st Place: Mikhael Glen Borja Lataza 92.60%
                 University of San Carlos

2nd Place: Gerald Magalona Mier 92.05%
                 Bicol University - Legazpi

3rd Place: Derrick Munar Ramos 91.85%
                 University of Santo Tomas

4th Place: John Rocel Anim Perez 91.60%
                 Camarines Norte State College - Daet

5th Place: Ervin Balsamo Rena 91.50%
                 University of Batangas

6th Place: Dee-Jay Demesa Alvaro 91.40%
                 Bicol State College of Applied Science and Technology

                 Jose Gabriel

7th Place: Jake Michael Canta Cruz 91.30%
                 University of the Philippines - Diliman

8th Place: Karlo Aguilar Avendano 91.10%
                 Bulacan State University - Malolos

9th Place: Renzy De Los Reyes Valdecantos 90.95%
                 PUP-Sta.Mesa-Main

                 Efren Diamante Villena Jr.  90.95%
                 PUP-Sto.Tomas

10th Place: Joshnell Rhenz Javier Sigue 90.80%
                   PUP-Sto.Tomas

                   Francis Leonard Lopez Tinaja 90.80%
                   University of Batangas


Related:






April 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination Top 10 Examinees

The successful examinees who garnered the 10 highest places in the April 2019 Electrical Engineer Licensure Examination are the following:

1st Place - Christian Yecyec Cahig 93.50%
                  Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology

                  Clark Sigmund Rabano de Castro 93.50%
                  UP-Los Banos

2nd Place - Renzie Aldritz Mempin Pingol 92.25%
                  Tarlac State University (Tarlac College of Technology)

3rd Place - Paul Nathaniel Miguel Bacud 91.85%
                  Mapua University - Manila

                  Aljon Sarmiento Gablan 91.85%
                  UP-Los Banos

4th Place - Jonathan Ligaya Ampis 91.55%
                  Technological University of the Philippines-Taguig

                  James Christian Turner Diaz 91.55%
                  UP-Los Banos

5th Place - Ma Danica Galicia Castillo 91.40%
                  UP-Los Banos

6th Place - Carl Peter Christian Canido Caampued 91.15%
                  UP-Los Banos

7th Place - Jason Roy Maaliw Aves 90.90%
                  Mapua University - Manila

8th Place - Jan Joe Silvino Carcillar 90.75%
                  Central Mindanao University

                  Wilson Domingo Lazarte 90.75%
                  Bataan Peninsula State University - Main Campus

9th Place - Jenifer Gallardo Ricalde 90.70%
                  UP-Los Banos

10th Place - Joshua Manginsay Alarin 90.60%
                   Mindanao State University - Gen.Santos City

List of successful examinees

Topnotchers

Top Schools

Who is the Founder of the Girl Scout of the Philippines?

founder of the girl scout of the philippines
Founder of the Girl Scout of the Philippines | Image Credit: Lahi


The founder of the Girl Scout of the Philippines is Josefa Llanes Escoda.


From the Philippines to the United States, Josefa Llanes Escoda, whose nickname is Pepa, raised the bar for women and Filipinos in general with her commendable leadership skills.


As the eldest of seven children, she had to help her mother take care of her siblings after the death of her father in 1918, all while studying to obtain a high school teacher’s certificate from the University of the Philippines.


In 1939, she went to the US to learn girl scouting and came back to organize the organization with Pilar Hidalgo Lim, who was, then, the national president of the National Federation of Women’s Clubs. On May 26, 1940, the GSP charter was enacted through Commonwealth Act No. 542 under the administration of President Manuel L. Quezon. During the Japanese occupation, Escoda and her husband were notoriously known for their smuggling activities to bring aid, medicine, and food to Filipino and American war prisoners in the concentration camps. Her heroism saved lives and was one of the pioneering movements for women's empowerment. (asiatatler)


During the Japanese occupation, she and her husband, Antonio, secretly helped Filipino and American prisoners, which led to their capture and alleged execution in 1944.


Escoda, a native of Dingras town in Ilocos Norte, was an active and dedicated social worker. She was also an advocate of women’s right to suffrage at a time when only men were allowed to vote. (abs-cbn)


Aside from founding the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, she also founded the Boys’ Town in Manila for the underprivileged boys of Manila and the National Federation of Women’s Clubs.


Escoda, dubbed the “Florence Nightingale of the Philippines,” played a key role in providing aid to the prisoners of war during the Japanese Occupation period.


Josefa Llanes Escoda, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines was born on September 20, 1898, to Mercedes Madamba and Gabriel Llanes. She passed away during the Japanese occupation.


A street in Ermita was named after her. A building has been also named after her and a monument has been dedicated to her memory. She is also named after a road in Ilocos Norte and was depicted on the current 1000-peso bill as one of three Filipinos martyred by the Japanese Armed Forces.


You may want to read:

Cafe de Manila FX Sudirman in Jakarta Indonesia

cafe de manila fx sudirman
Cafe de Manila in Jakarta Indonesia | Image Credit: DFA

 

Are you craving for Filipino food in Indonesia? Try Daing na Bangus, Tinolang Manok, and Beef Ribs Gata at Cafe de Manila FX Sudirman in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Cafe de Manila is located at 2nd Floor, FX Sudirman Mall, JI. Jenderal Sudirman, Jakarta, Indonesia.

It has a branch at Sampoerna Strategic Square, Semanggi, Jakarta.

This Filipino restaurant in Indonesia is proud to say “Mabuhay! Prepare yourself for a culinary experience, as it brings you Filipino dishes that would leave you saying “Masarap”.

The Cafe’s best sellers are Daing na Bangus, Tinolang Manok, and Beef Ribs Gata.

The foods are affordable. Food prices ranges from 20,000 Indonesian rupiah to 68,000 Indonesian rupiah. 1 US Dollar is equivalent to 14,102 rupiah more or less depending on current exchange rate.

One of the Cafe’s popular food is “Nasi Goreng Special”, It is an Indonesian fried rice with chili and shrimp paste, served with fried egg, shrimp crackers, satay and Indonesian pickles.

It also offers “Sop Buntut”, an all-time favorite Indonesian style ox tail soup served with pickles, crackers and steamed rice.

These are some of the foods you may order but it offers more on the menu.

For any inquiries, you may call the Cafe at +62 812 883 19892 (WhatApp) or you may send an email at cafedemnl@gmail.com.

Anagolay Goddess of Lost Things

anagolay
Anagolay “Goddess of Lost Things” | Image Credit: Lahi

 

Anagolay is known as the goddess of lost things. She is the mother of the god of the sun, Apolaki. Anagolay is the only offspring of Lakapati, the goddess of fertility, and Mapulon, the god of the seasons.(soulcatcherdotblog)


An asteroid was named after her. It was recommended by a Filipino student named Mohammad  Alon and won from the thousands of names passed by 85 countries in the Space Generation Advisory Council.


Anagolay was the daughter of two major Tagalog deities–Ikapati and Mapulon. When she reached the right age, she married the hunter Dumakulem and gave birth to two more deities: Apolaki and Dian Masalanta, the ancient gods of sun and lovers, respectively. (Tagalog Mythology)

Hiraya Brown Rice

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Hiraya Brown Rice is Leads International’s most esteemed product because it serves as the face of Leads International’s vision of being a globally competitive Filipino company that provides equitable business opportunities to Filipino Entrepreneurs.


Hiraya by the way is a Filipino word that means vision, to foresee.


Through this product, Hiraya can give back to the community by supporting local entrepreneurship and the Filipino farmer’s hard work and ingenuity.


Hiraya Brown Rice is a premium all-natural brown rice. It has no pesticide residue thereby reducing diabetes risk, Increases good cholesterol levels, improves digestive health, and is rich in powerful anti-oxidants.


The benefits of eating brown rice are many, like:

  • Helps in weight loss
  • Lower calories
  • Promotes good digestion
  • Boost metabolism to burn fat
  • Reduce the risk of cancer and heart diseases
  • Lower bad cholesterol
  • Boost immunity
  • Keeps bones healthy
  • Promotes healthy bowel function
  • Reduces diabetes risk


For those who are interested to buy this nutritious and healthy rice, you may call 09434207227 or 09952149602 for inquiry.


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Philippine Passport 6 Month Validity Rule

Philippine Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure. DFA suggests that you renew your passport 6 to 10 months before the date of expiration.

Flight bookings should only be made if passports are still valid for at least six (6) months.

DFA requires the 6-month passport validity rule because the Philippine Bureau of Immigration lists the 6-month rule as a requirement for Philippine citizens who like to travel abroad.

The Bureau of Immigration requires every citizen who travels abroad to have an unexpired DFA-issued passport that is valid for at least 6 months. For Philippine citizens who will travel abroad as tourists, a return ticket is also required.

What are the OFW travel requirements? OFW travel requirements are the following:

There is no way to circumvent this passport 6-month rule. Even travel agencies say passports have to be more than 6 months valid because the Philippine immigrations require it and they can hold your departure if not more than 6 months valid.

Remember that the 6-month passport validity rule is strictly applied to Filipino citizens going abroad.

You might ask, what if I am working abroad or a tourist residing abroad and my passport is less than six months before expiration, Am I required to renew my passport?

The embassy said that if the passport is nearing expiration (less than six months validity) and the passport holder will soon return to the Philippines for good, there is no need to apply for a new passport or to extend the validity of the passport.

Filipinos making one-way travel to the Philippines and whose passport is nearing expiry are allowed to purchase a direct airline trip to the Philippines and enter the Philippines.

The passport 6-month validity rule is not an exclusive Philippine rule. International travel and immigration authorities of all countries require at least 6 months of validity on a passport to be allowed entry into a country. In Singapore for instance, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) requires at least 2 years of validity for Pass renewal.

The Embassy of the Philippines in Singapore recommends that you apply for a new passport about 9 months before your passport’s expiration date. However, for considerations such as Pass renewal, the depletion of visa pages in the passport, applying for a travel or immigration visa in a foreign embassy, or other meritorious needs, the Embassy will allow application for a new passport a year or more before the current passport’s expiration.

Carriedo LRT Station

carriedo lrt station map
Carriedo LRT Station Map | Image Credit: Lahi

Carriedo LRT Station is located between Doroteo Jose LRT Station and Central Terminal Station.

The Carriedo station was named after Francisco Carriedo Y Peredo who is a Captain-General of Santa Familia Galleon.

Francisco Carriedo is a Spanish native. who conceived the construction of a public water system in Manila in the 1700s and personally raised funds for the project and even donated his own fortune worth Php10,000.

He died way before it was finally constructed, more than a century later in 1878. But it was still his money that was used after it was tracked down across 300 documents by Spanish Franciscan friar Felix Huerta.

Prior to the public irrigation in Manila, the residents of Manila only took water from the Pasig River. As a result, water-borne diseases have become widespread like cholera.

Kugtong Fish Story

Kugtong Fish Story


The Philippines is surrounded by the ocean so it’s no wonder we have scary stories about sea monsters.


Kugtong (the biggest coral-dwelling fish) is a local term for an unusually large grouper or Lapu Lapu/pugapo fish found in the waters of Cebu island. One popular version is the Kugtong in General Milling Corporation located in Lapu-Lapu City. This Kugtong is said to be large enough to devour a human being.


The kugtong in a milling company in Lapu-Lapu City. Locals of the island city of Lapu-Lapu know too well the story of a grouper fish living under a milling company. The fish is said to be so big that it can swallow a person whole. Some people would say that it has razor-sharp teeth and scales allegedly because it mutated due to the biological waste products of the milling company.


A variation of this story states that the owners consider the fish lucky and that it is fed a live person to continue bringing in business abundance. (Sunstar)


In the craggy depth of the sea lies a monster – the giant Lapu-Lapu or grouper. Fishermen in the area respect the niche of this benthic creature. They tell stories of missing pets and fishermen, of mysterious encounters that turn the sea inside out, a battle between a kugtong and a giant squid or whale. These are stories of fishermen and are often exaggerated.


There is a story about a kugtong who lived under the old pier of San Fernando, La Union. For a long time, the strange fish was feared by the residents and many animals around had mysteriously disappeared. Then the local fishermen decided to catch it with a big hook luring the fish with a live piglet as bait. The fish took it and struggled until it was finally subdued. It was hauled by many men and if the story is accurate it took a six-by-six truck to transport it.


The fifth class Municipality of Libertad in the Province of Antique drew public attention last July 8, 2015, when pictures of a very big fish circulated on social media and the internet.


The fish which was stranded in the shallow waters of the town was identified as a giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus), locally known as Lapu-Lapu in Filipino, or pugaro or kugtong in the Kinaray-a dialect. the stranded fish measured 7 feet and weighed 176 kilograms. Fisherman Jessie Cacam of Barangay Taboc in this Municipality spotted the dying fish in Balo Point and solicited the aid of seven other fishermen in carrying it from the Pandan Bay to shore. (rappler)

Kain Filipino Rice Bar in Norway

kain filipino rice bar
Kain Filipino Rice Bar In Norway | Image Credit: DFA

 

Kain Filipino Rice Bar offers Filipino food in Norway

Craving for Filipino food in Norway? Try Adobo, Chicken BBQ, and Tapsilog at Kain Rice Bar in Oslo, Norway.

KAIN Filipino Rice Bar serves you traditional Filipino dishes passed down from one generation to another and yet still hold its appeal even to the contemporary taste buds.

Bring your family, friends or anyone and treat yourself to a taste of the Philippines right in the middle of Oslo in Norway.

The foods offered are very affordable. Price ranges from 59 Norwegian Krone to 139 krone. 1 Krone is equivalent to 6.07 Philippine Peso, subject to foreign exchange fluctuation.

If you are in Norway and craving for Filipino food, then you may visit the place at Oslo Street Food Hall, Torggata 16, 0181, Oslo, Norway.

This restaurant in Norway’s best sellers is Adobo, Chicken Barbecue, and Tapsilog.

The adobo ingredients are pork-belly with soy, garlic, and vinegar; pickled papaya salad and spring onions served with brown or white rice.

The chicken barbecue is a grilled and smoky chicken barbecue with pickled papaya salad and spring onions served with brown or white rice.

The Tapsilog is soy-marinated beef stew with poached egg, pickled onions, jalapenos, crispy onions, chives, and coriander, served with garlic brown rice or white rice.

The food stall is open from 12 PM to 9 PM.

Cough and Cold in the Philippines

Things to do to prevent diseases such as cough and cold in the Philippines

cough and cold in the philippines
Preventing Cough and Cold in the Philippines | Image Owner: DOH

 

Cough and cold are common diseases in the Philippines especially during summer. It is easy to avoid if you do the following.

  • Hand washing – hand washing is the best way to avoid germs.
  • Drink 8-10 glasses of water – drinking water helps to soften mucus that causes cold and cough.
  • Eat healthy foods – reduce the diet of sweet and fat. Eat vegetables and fruits rich in various types of vitamins and minerals.
  • Exercise – exercise is an effective way to strengthen the body to combat diseases.
  • Get enough sleep – the body treats and repairs damaged cells while sleeping, sleeping helps prevent illness. Follow the recommended hours of sleep according to age if possible.

Karaniwang sakit man ang ubo at sipon, ito ay madali lang iwasan kung susundin ang mga sumusunod.

Mga dapat gawin upang makaiwas sa sakit tulad ng ubo at sipon.

Ugaliing maghugas ng kamay – ang paghuhugas ng kamay ay ang pinakamahusay na paraan upang makaiwas sa mga mikrobyo.

Uminom ng 8-10 baso ng tubig – ang pag-inom ng tubig ay tumutulong upang mapalambot ang mucus na nagdudulot ng sipon at ubo.

Kumain ng masusustansyang pagkain – bawasan ang pagkain ng mga matatamis at matataba. Kumain ng mga gulay at prutas na mataas sa iba’t-ibang uri ng vitamins at minerals.

Mag-ehersisyo – ang pag-eehersisyo ay epektibong paraan upang palakasin ang katawan laban sa sakit.

Magkaroon ng sapat na tulog – ginagamot at inaayos ng katawan ang mga nasirang cells habang natutulog na syang nakatutulong sa pag-iwas sa mga karamdaman. Sundin ang recommended hours of sleep na naaayon sa edad kung maaari.

 

 

CMS-Asia

The CMS-Asia (Center For Musculoskeletal Science-Asia) is the ultimate one-stop center for the treatment of musculoskeletal pains, spinal problems, and sports injuries in the Philippines. It was founded in 2009 by Dr.Isagani S. Leal, MD.MPH.

The CMS-Asia’s mission is to boost the productivity of its clients by enjoying a pain-free working environment and to liberate patients from the pain of long-sufferings of complicated and intractable musculoskeletal pains through the minimally invasive state of the art cutting edge technology equipment; and, to continue serving its clients with quality services through continuing medical education, training, research, product development and upgrading of facilities.

The CMS-Asia is the country’s ultimate in the minimally invasive image-guided treatment for back pain, arthritis, shoulder pain, spinal problems, and sports injuries using arthroscopic, fluoroscopic, and ultrasound-guided interventions and regenerative medicines.

The CMS-Asia has been serving the region with quality care in the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal pains and sports injuries. DIAGNOSTICS: Diagnostic Musculoskeletal Ultrasound, Fluoroscopic X-ray, Infrared Thermal Scanner, Balance Assessment, Joint Diagnoscopy, Synovial, and Inflammatory Fluid, Microscopy, SERVICES: Ultrasound-Guided Injection, Ultrasound _ Guided Osteophyte Removal (Barbotage), Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration, Fluoroscopic – Guided Spinal and Joint Injection, Physical Therapy, SIMUR Technique, ( Ultrasound-Guided Intramuscular Stimulation), MSK Interventional Treatment Protocol, Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP), Extra-Corporeal Shockwave Therapy, Biostimulation LASER Therapy, Magneto Therapy, Spinal Core Stability Program (SCORES), Cervical & Lumbar Mechanical Traction (DOC), Manual Joints and Spinal Manipulation
(Cyriax Technique), and Sports Specific Rehabilitation Program.

CMS-Asia is not only treating sports injuries but also enhancing the performance of elite athletes. For information on how to enhance your sports performance, you may contact for information on 09179404762 or 02-3333-251.

CMS-Asia is located at 33 West Avenue, Quezon City.

The clinic is open for business from Monday to Friday. It opens at 8 AM and closes at 5 PM. On Saturday, it is open only from 8 AM until 12 PM.

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Galis Aso

galis aso
Galis Aso | Image Credit: DOH

Galis Aso is an infectious skin infection caused by sarcoptic mange or “germs”, it is a very small parasite digging and rolling under the skin which caused severe irritation and allergies.

It is one of the most common diseases during the summer season.

How you get it:

  • A person can get infected by touching (contact) the skin of an infected person.
  • Using the personal things of a person infected like clothing, blankets, towels, and mat.

Avoidance and Prevention:

  • Bath every day and change clothes.
  • Avoid borrowing or lending towels, sleeping, and other body supplies.
  • Before washing the patient’s personal things, use boiling water and immerse the patient’s
    personal things for ten minutes.

Signs:

  • Unavoidable itch and scratching of the skin especially at night.
  • Skin crusting between the fingers, the wrists and legs, and other parts of the body.

Isang nakakahawang impeksyon sa balat na dulot ng sarcoptic mange o “kagaw”, isang napakaliit na parasito na naghuhukay at naglulungga sa ilalim ng balat na nagiging sanhi ng matinding pangangati at allergy.

Paano nakukuha:

  • Maaaring ilipat ng taong may galis-aso sa ibang tao sa pagdirikit ng kanilang balat.
  • Sa mga pang personal na gamit ng taong may galis aso tulad ng damit, kumot, unan tuwalya at banig.

Pag-iwas at pagsugpo:

  • Maligo araw-araw at magpalit ng damit.
  • Iwasang manghiram o magpahiram ng tuwalya, gamit sa pagtulog at iba pang gamit sa katawan.
  • Bago labhan ang mga gamit ng pasyente, buhusan muna ito ng kumukulong tubig at ibabad sa loob ng sampung minuto.

Mga Palatandaan:

  • Hindi mapigilang pagkati at pagkamot lalo na kung gabi.
  • Pagkakaroon ng singaw sa mga pagitan ng daliri, sa may pusuhan at sa pigi.

Baclaran LRT Station

baclaran lrt station
Image Credit: Lahi

Baclaran LRT Station is the last LRT station going south. The station is located on the last stretches of Taft Avenue in Pasay, right at the border with Baclaran, ParaƱaque,  and, like all other stations on the LRT-1, Baclaran terminal is above-ground on a viaduct.

The terminal is named after the famous shopping district of the same name, which is located on the borders of the cities of Pasay and ParaƱaque.

Baclaran was taken from the Filipino word “baclad” which means “fish trap”.

Before World War II and during high tides, the waters of Manila Bay used to reach the foot of what we now know as Baclaran Redemptorist Convent.

At that time, the area was popular for breeding fish. It was filled with rattan-made baclad, which were used to sort out fingerlings from bigger fishes.

That was how it became the land of fish traps” or in Filipino, bacladan.

Peace Treaty of Cebu

peace treaty of cebu
Peace Treaty of Cebu | Image Credit: Lahi

 

The Peace Treaty of Cebu took place on June 4, 1565. A peace agreement was signed between the Philippines and Spain.

Rajah Tupas and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi representing King Philip II of Spain’s act of signing the peace treaty, the Philippines officially became a “suzerainty” of Spain.  What is suzerainty? Pretentious freedom in exchange for peace.

Suzerainty is any relationship in which one region or nation controls the foreign policy and relations of a tributary state while allowing the tributary nation to have internal autonomy.

Pinirmahan ang kauna-unahang kasunduang pangkapayapaan sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at Espana.

Sa paglagda nina Rajah Tupaz at Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, opisyal na naging “suzerainty” ng Espana ang Pilipinas. Ano ba ang suzerainty? Isang mapagpanggap na kalayaan kapalit ng kapayapaan.

Rajah Tupas was the son of Sri Parang the Limp, and the nephew of Rajah Humabon (also known as Sri Hamabar). He is known to have been baptized on March 21, 1568, at age 70, placing his birthdate at about 1497.

He ruled Cebu with his peers until he was defeated by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi’s soldiers on April 27, 1565.

Following the signing of the treaty, in the same year, the church and convent of Santo NiƱo, the first Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines, was built by Father Andres de Urdaneta. This marked the beginning of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines as Spanish priests from other religious orders followed.(kahimyang)

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President of Tagalog Republic Macario Sakay

president of tagalog republic
President of Tagalog Republic “Macario Sakay” | Image Credit: Lahi


The President of Tagalog Republic (Macario Sakay) was born in Tondo, Manila, on March 1, 1878. His first job was that of an apprentice in a calesa shop. Later he became a tailor and stage actor before joining the Katipunan Movement led by Andres Bonifacio.


Macario Sakay was among the original members of the Katipunan and the last Filipino resistance leader to surrender to the Americans. He joined the Katipunan in 1894.


While hiding in the mountains, Sakay organized his forces in Bulacan, Pampanga, Morong, Cavite, Laguna, and Batangas, and later created the Tagalog Republic or “Republika ng Katagalugan.’ He became the President of the Tagalog Republic.


In the early years of the 20th century, as Emilio Aguinaldo surrendered to the Americans, Macario Sakay, commander of the remnants of the Filipino revolutionary army, was branded a bandolero (bandit) by the US forces who had inflicted themselves upon the Philippines.


On July 4, 1902, US President Theodore Roosevelt issued a proclamation officially ending what Americans referred to as the “Philippine Insurrection.” In the proclamation, he announced that “peace had been established in all parts of the archipelago except in the country inhabited by the Moro tribes.


The so-called “insurrection” was expensive and bloody for both sides. Americans spent some $600 million or roughly $10 billion in today’s currency and lost 4,234 men who were killed in action. Filipino losses came up to some 20,000 soldiers and 200,000 civilian casualties.


The surrender of Gen. Miguel Malvar in April 1902, provided the United States with a basis for declaring that the war was over. All other anti-American activities after Malvar’s surrender were considered the work of bandits or tulisanes.”


The reality of the situation was that the Philippine-American War continued for almost a decade after the Roosevelt proclamation.


One of the revolutionary heroes who continued the fight was Macario de Leon Sakay.


From 1902 to 1906, from his stronghold in the mountains of Laguna province, he led an effective guerrilla campaign against the Americans. The main area of operations of Sakay’s resistance movement was in the southern Tagalog provinces of Rizal, Batangas, Laguna, and Cavite. So successful were his exploits that the Americans resorted to “hamleting” (concentrating villagers in one location for more effective control) in areas where Sakay had strong mass support.


In 1905, Governor-General Henry Ide sent an ilustrado, Dominador Gomez, to speak to Sakay with an offer of amnesty for him and his men. Part of the offer was the establishment of a Philippine Assembly as a starting point toward eventual independence. The idea appealed to Sakay who dreamed of Filipinos freely participating in determining their course as a nation.


As a result, he surrendered in July 1906. It was a trap. He was welcomed in Manila, but while attending a party tendered by the Constabulary chief Col. Henry H. Bandholtz, Sakay and his chief subordinates were disarmed and arrested. Accused of being a bandit under the Brigandage Act of 1902, he was sentenced to death and hanged on Sept. 13, 1907. (The Brigandage Act held that persons refusing to give allegiance to the American government in the Philippines were liable for arrest and execution.)


Camp General Macario Sakay in Los BaƱos, Laguna was named after the general in January 2016, when Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Hernando Iriberri issued General Order No.30, changing the camp’s name from Camp Eldridge, a name the camp had been given during the American occupation a century prior.


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Who are the 13 Martyrs of Cavite?

13 Martyrs of Cavite or Trece Martires

13 martyrs of cavite
Image Credit: Lahi

13 Filipinos supporting the Katipunan were executed by Spanish authorities in Plaza de Armas, Cavite City. They are known as the 13 Martyrs of Cavite or Trece Martires.

They are:

  1. Maximo Inocencio
  2. Luis Aguado
  3. Hugo Perez
  4. Victoriano Luciano
  5. Jose Lallana
  6. Antonio San Agustin
  7. Agapito Conchu
  8. Feliciano Cabuco
  9. Maximo Gregorio
  10. Eugenio Cabezas
  11. Severino Lapidario
  12. Alfonso de Ocampo
  13. Francisco Osorio

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RA 10591 | Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act

RA 10591

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE LAW ON FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

ARTICLE I
TITLE, DECLARATION OF POLICY AND DEFINITION OF TERMS

Section 1. Short Title. – This Act shall be known as the "Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act".

Section 2. Declaration of State Policy. – It is the policy of the State to maintain peace and order and protect the people against violence. The State also recognizes the right of its qualified citizens to self-defense through, when it is the reasonable means to repel the unlawful aggression under the circumstances, the use of firearms. Towards this end, the State shall provide for a comprehensive law regulating the ownership, possession, carrying, manufacture, dealing in and importation of firearms, ammunition, or parts thereof, in order to provide legal support to law enforcement agencies in their campaign against crime, stop the proliferation of illegal firearms or weapons and the illegal manufacture of firearms or weapons, ammunition and parts thereof.

Section 3. Definition of Terms. – As used in this Act:

(a) Accessories refer to parts of a firearm which may enhance or increase the operational efficiency or accuracy of a firearm but will not constitute any of the major or minor internal parts thereof such as, hut not limited to, laser scope, telescopic sight and sound suppressor or silencer.

(b) Ammunition refers to a complete unfixed unit consisting of a bullet, gunpowder, cartridge case and primer or loaded shell for use in any firearm.

(c) Antique firearm refers to any: (1) firearm which was manufactured at least seventy-five (75) years prior to the current date but not including replicas; (2) firearm which is certified by the National Museum of the Philippines to be curio or relic of museum interest; and (3) any other firearm which derives a substantial part of its monetary value from the fact that it is novel, rare, bizarre or because of its association with some historical figure, period or event.

(d) Arms smuggling refers to the import, export, acquisition, sale, delivery, movement or transfer of firearms, their parts and components, and ammunition, from or across the territory of one country to that of another country which has not been authorized in accordance with domestic law in either or both country/countries.

(e) Authority to import refers to a document issued by the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) authorizing the importation of firearms, or their parts, ammunition and other components.

(f) Authorized dealer refers to any person, legal entity, corporation, partnership or business entity duly licensed by the Firearms and Explosive Office (FEO) of the PNP to engage in the business of buying and selling ammunition, firearms or parte thereof, at wholesale or retail basis.

(g) Authorized importer refers to any person, legal entity, corporation, partnership or business duly licensed by the FEO of the PNP to engage in the business of importing ammunition and firearms, or parts thereof into the territory of the Republic of the Philippines for purposes of sale or distribution under the provisions of this Act.

(h) Authorized manufacturer refers to any person, legal entity, corporation, or partnership duly licensed by the FEO of the PNP to engage in the business of manufacturing firearms, and ammunition or parts thereof for purposes of sale or distribution.

(i) Confiscated firearm refers to a firearm that is taken into custody by the PNP, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and all other law enforcement agencies by reason of their mandate and must be necessarily reported or turned over to the PEO of the PNP.

(j) Demilitarized firearm refers to a firearm deliberately made incapable of performing its main purpose of firing a projectile.

(k) Duty detail order refers to a document issued by the juridical entity or employer wherein the details of the disposition of firearm is spelled-out, thus indicating the name of the employee, the firearm information, the specific duration and location of posting or assignment and the authorized bonded firearm custodian for the juridical entity to whom such firearm is turned over after the lapse of the order.

(l) Firearm refers to any handheld or portable weapon, whether a small arm or light weapon, that expels or is designed to expel a bullet, shot, slug, missile or any projectile, which is discharged by means of expansive force of gases from burning gunpowder or other form of combustion or any similar instrument or implement. For purposes of this Act, the barrel, frame or receiver is considered a firearm.

(m) Firearms Information Management System (FIMS) refers to the compilation of all data and information on firearms ownership and disposition for record purposes.

(n) Forfeited firearm refers to a firearm that is subject to forfeiture by reason of court order as accessory penalty or for the disposition by the FEO of the PNP of firearms considered as abandoned, surrendered, confiscated or revoked in compliance with existing rules and regulations.

(o) Gun club refers to an organization duly registered with and accredited in good standing by the FEO of the PNP which is established for the purpose of propagating responsible and safe gun ownership, proper appreciation and use of firearms by its members, for the purpose of sports and shooting competition, self-defense and collection purposes.

(p) Gunsmith refers to any person, legal entity, corporation, partnership or business duly licensed by the FEO of the PNP to engage in the business of repairing firearms and other weapons or constructing or assembling firearms and weapons from finished or manufactured parts thereof on a per order basis and not in commercial quantities or of making minor parts for the purpose of repairing or assembling said firearms or weapons.

(q) Imitation firearm refers to a replica of a firearm, or other device that is so substantially similar in coloration and overall appearance to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to believe that such imitation firearm is a real firearm.

(r) Licensed citizen refers to any Filipino who complies with the qualifications set forth in this Act and duly issued with a license to possess or to carry firearms outside of the residence in accordance with this Act.

(s) Licensed, juridical entity refers to corporations, organizations, businesses including security agencies and local government units (LGUs) which are licensed to own and possess firearms in accordance with this Act.

(t) Light weapons are: Class-A Light weapons which refer to self-loading pistols, rifles and carbines, submachine guns, assault rifles and light machine guns not exceeding caliber 7.62MM which have fully automatic mode; and Class-B Light weapons which refer to weapons designed for use by two (2) or more persons serving as a crew, or rifles and machine guns exceeding caliber 7.62MM such as heavy machine guns, handheld under-barrel and mounted grenade launchers, portable anti-aircraft guns, portable anti-tank guns, recoilless rifles, portable launchers of anti-tank missile and rocket systems, portable launchers of anti-aircraft missile systems, and mortars of a caliber of less than 100MM.

(u) Long certificate of registration refers to licenses issued to government agencies or offices or government-owned or -controlled corporations for firearms to be used by their officials and employees who are qualified to possess firearms as provided in this Act, excluding security guards.

(v) Loose firearm refers to an unregistered firearm, an obliterated or altered firearm, a firearm which has been lost or stolen, illegally manufactured firearms, registered firearms in the possession of an individual other than the licensee and those with revoked licenses in accordance with the rules and regulations.

(w) Major part or components of a firearm refers to the barrel, slide, frame, receiver, cylinder or the bolt assembly. The term also includes any part or kit designed and intended for use in converting a semi-automatic burst to a full automatic firearm.

(x) Minor parts of a firearm refers to the parts of the firearm other than the major parts which are necessary to effect and complete the action of expelling a projectile by way of combustion, except those classified as accessories.

(y) Permit to carry firearm outside of residence refers to a written authority issued to a licensed citizen by the Chief of the PNP which entitles such person to carry his/her registered or lawfully issued firearm outside of the residence for the duration and purpose specified in the authority.

(z) Permit to transport firearm refers to a written authority issued to a licensed citizen or entity by the Chief of the PNP or by a PNP Regional Director which entitles such person or entity to transport a particular firearm from and to a specific location within the duration and purpose in the authority.

(aa) Residence refers to the place or places of abode of the licensed citizen as indicated in his/her license.

(bb) Shooting range refers to a facility established for the purpose of firearms training and skills development, firearm testing, as well as for sports and competition shooting either for the exclusive use of its members or open to the general public, duly registered with and accredited in good standing by the FEO of the PNP.

(cc) Short certificate of registration refers to a certificate issued by the FEO of the PNP for a government official or employee who was issued by his/her employer department, agency or government-owned or -controlled corporation a firearm covered by the long certificate of registration.

(dd) Small arms refer to firearms intended to be or primarily designed for individual use or that which is generally considered to mean a weapon intended to be fired from the hand or shoulder, which are not capable of fully automatic bursts of discharge, such as:

(1) Handgun which is a firearm intended to be fired from the hand, which includes:

(i) A pistol which is a hand-operated firearm having a chamber integral with or permanently aligned with the bore which may be self-loading; and

(ii) Revolver which is a hand-operated firearm with a revolving cylinder containing chambers for individual cartridges.

(2) Rifle which is a shoulder firearm or designed to be fired from the shoulder that can discharge a bullet through a rifled barrel by different actions of loading, which may be classified as lever, bolt, or self-loading; and

(3) Shotgun which is a weapon designed, made and intended to fire a number of ball shots or a single projectile through a smooth bore by the action or energy from burning gunpowder.

(ee) Sports shooting competition refers to a defensive, precision or practical sport shooting competition duly authorized by the FEO of the PNP.

(ff) Tampered, obliterated or altered firearm refers to any firearm whose serial number or other identification or ballistics characteristics have been intentionally tampered with, obliterated or altered without authority or in order to conceal its source, identity or ownership.

(gg) Thermal weapon sight refers to a battery operated, uncooled thermal imaging device which amplifies available thermal signatures so that the viewed scene becomes clear to the operator which is used to locate and engage targets during daylight and from low light to total darkness and operates in adverse conditions such as light rain, light snow, and dry smoke or in conjunction with other optical and red dot sights.

ARTICLE II
OWNERSHIP AND POSSESSION OF FIREARMS

Section 4. Standards and Requisites for Issuance of and Obtaining a License to Own and Possess Firearms. – In order to qualify and acquire a license to own and possess a firearm or firearms and ammunition, the applicant must be a Filipino citizen, at least twenty-one (21) years old and has gainful work, occupation or business or has filed an Income Tax Return (ITR) for the preceding year as proof of income, profession, business or occupation.

In addition, the applicant shall submit the following certification issued by appropriate authorities attesting the following:

(a) The applicant has not been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude;

(b) The applicant has passed the psychiatric test administered by a PNP-accredited psychologist or psychiatrist;

(c) The applicant has passed the drug test conducted by an accredited and authorized drug testing laboratory or clinic;

(d) The applicant has passed a gun safety seminar which is administered by the PNP or a registered and authorized gun club;

(e) The applicant has filed in writing the application to possess a registered firearm which shall state the personal circumstances of the applicant;

(f) The applicant must present a police clearance from the city or municipality police office; and

(g) The applicant has not been convicted or is currently an accused in a pending criminal case before any court of law for a crime that is punishable with a penalty of more than two (2) years.

For purposes of this Act, an acquittal or permanent dismissal of a criminal case before the courts of law shall qualify the accused thereof to qualify and acquire a license.

The applicant shall pay the reasonable licensing fees as may be provided in the implementing rules and regulations of this Act.

An applicant who intends to possess a firearm owned by a juridical entity shall submit his/her duty detail order to the FEO of the PNP.

Section 5. Ownership of Firearms and Ammunition by a Juridical Entity. – A juridical person maintaining its own security force may be issued a regular license to own and possess firearms and ammunition under the following conditions:

(a) It must be Filipino-owned and duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC);

(b) It is current, operational and a continuing concern;

(c) It has completed and submitted all its reportorial requirements to the SEC; and

(d) It has paid all its income taxes for the year, as duly certified by the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

The application shall be made in the name of the juridical person represented by its President or any of its officers mentioned below as duly authorized in a board resolution to that effect: Provided, That the officer applying for the juridical entity, shall possess all the qualifications required of a citizen applying for a license to possess firearms.

Other corporate officers eligible to represent the juridical person are the vice president, treasurer, and board secretary.

Security agencies and LGUs shall be included in this category of licensed holders but shall be subject to additional requirements as may be required by the Chief of the PNP.

Section 6. Ownership of Firearms by the National Government. – All firearms owned by the National Government shall be registered with the FEO of the PNP in the name of the Republic of the Philippines. Such registration shall be exempt from all duties and taxes that may otherwise be levied on other authorized owners of firearms. For reason of national security, firearms of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies shall only be reported to the FEO of the PNP.

Section 7. Carrying of Firearms Outside of Residence or Place of Business. – A permit to carry firearms outside of residence shall be issued by the Chief of the PNP or his/her duly authorized representative to any qualified person whose life is under actual threat or his/her life is in imminent danger due to the nature of his/her profession, occupation or business.

It shall be the burden of the applicant to prove that his/her life is under actual threat by submitting a threat assessment certificate from the PNP.

For purposes of this Act, the following professionals are considered to be in imminent danger due to the nature of their profession, occupation or business:

(a) Members of the Philippine Bar;

(b) Certified Public Accountants;

(c) Accredited Media Practitioners;

(d) Cashiers, Bank Tellers;

(e) Priests, Ministers, Rabbi, Imams;

(f) Physicians and Nurses;

(g) Engineers; and

(h) Businessmen, who by the nature of their business or undertaking, are exposed to high risk of being targets of criminal elements.

ARTICLE III
REGISTRATION AND LICENSING

Section 8. Authority to Issue License. – The Chief of the PNP, through the FEO of the PNP, shall issue licenses to qualified individuals and to cause the registration of firearms.

Section 9. Licenses Issued to Individuals. – Subject to the requirements set forth in this Act and payment of required fees to be determined by the Chief of the PNP, a qualified individual may be issued the appropriate license under the following categories;

Type 1 license – allows a citizen to own and possess a maximum of two (2) registered firearms;

Type 2 license – allows a citizen to own and possess a maximum of five (5) registered firearms;

Type 3 license – allows a citizen to own and possess a maximum of ten (10) registered firearms;

Type 4 license – allows a citizen to own and possess a maximum of fifteen (15) registered firearms; and

Type 5 license – allows a citizen, who is a certified gun collector, to own and possess more than fifteen (15) registered firearms.

For Types 1 to 5 licenses, a vault or a container secured by lock and key or other security measures for the safekeeping of firearms shall be required.

For Types 3 to 5 licenses, the citizen must comply with the inspection and bond requirements.

Section 10. Firearms That May Be Registered. – Only small arms may be registered by licensed citizens or licensed juridical entities for ownership, possession and concealed carry. A light weapon shall be lawfully acquired or possessed exclusively by the AFP, the PNP, and other law enforcement agencies authorized by the President in the performance of their duties: Provided, That private individuals who already have licenses to possess Class-A light weapons upon the effectivity of this Act shall not be deprived of the privilege to continue possessing the same and renewing the licenses therefor, for the sole reason that these firearms are Class "A" light weapons, and shall be required to comply with other applicable provisions of this Act.

Section 11. Registration of Firearms. – The licensed citizen or licensed juridical entity shall register his/her/its firearms so purchased with the FEO of the PNP in accordance with the type of license such licensed citizen or licensed juridical entity possesses. A certificate of registration of the firearm shall be issued upon payment of reasonable fees.

For purposes of this Act, registration refers to the application, approval, record-keeping, and monitoring of firearms with the FEO of the PNP in accordance with the type of license issued to any person under Section 9 of this Act.

Section 12. License to Possess Ammunition Necessarily Included. – The licenses granted to qualified citizens or juridical entities as provided in Section 9 of this Act shall include the license to possess ammunition with a maximum of fifty (50) rounds for each registered firearm: Provided; That the FEO of the PNP may allow more ammunition to be possessed by licensed sports shooters.

Section 13. Issuance of License to Manufacture or Deal In Firearms and Ammunition. – Any person desiring to manufacture or deal in firearms, parts of firearms or ammunition thereof, or instruments and implements used or intended to be used in the manufacture of firearms, parts of firearms or ammunition, shall make an application to:

(a) The Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in the case of an application for a license to manufacture; and

(b) The Chief of the PNP in the case of a license to deal in firearms and firearms parts, ammunition and gun repair.

The applicant shall state the amount of capitalization for manufacture or cost of the purchase and sale of said articles intended to be transacted by such applicant; and the types of firms, ammunition or implements which the applicant intends to manufacture or purchase and sell under the license applied for; and such additional information as may be especially requested by the Secretary of the DILG or the Chief of the PNP.

The Secretary of the DILG or the Chief of the PNP may approve or disapprove such an application based on the prescribed guidelines. In the case of approval, the Secretary of the DILG or the Chief of the PNP shall indicate the amount of the bond to be executed by the applicant before the issuance of the license and the period of time by which said license shall be effective unless sooner revoked by their authority.

Upon approval of the license to manufacture or otherwise deal in firearms by the Secretary of the DILG or the Chief of the PNP as the case may be, the same shall be transmitted to the FEO of the PNP which shall issue the license in accordance with the approved terms and conditions, upon the execution and delivery by the applicant of the required bond conditioned upon the faithful compliance on the part of the licensee to the laws and regulations relative to the business licensed.

Section 14. Scope of License to Manufacture Firearms and Ammunition. – The scope of the License to Manufacture firearms and ammunition shall also include the following:

(a) The authority to manufacture and assemble firearms, ammunition, spare parts and accessories, ammunition components, and reloading of ammunitions, within sites, areas, and factories stated therein. The Secretary of the DILG shall approve such license;

(b) The license to deal in or sell all the items covered by the License to Manufacture, such as parts, firearms or ammunition and components;

(c) The authority to subcontract the manufacturing of parts and accessories necessary for the firearms which the manufacturer is licensed to manufacture: Provided, That the subcontractor of major parts or major components is also licensed to manufacture firearms and ammunition; and

(d) The authority to import machinery, equipment, and firearm parts and ammunition components for the manufacture thereof. Firearm parts and ammunition components to be imported shall, however, be limited to those authorized to be manufactured as reflected in the approved License to Manufacture. The Import Permit shall be under the administration of the PNP.

A licensed manufacturer of ammunition is also entitled to import various reference firearms needed to test the ammunition manufactured under the License to Manufacture. A licensed manufacturer of firearms, on the other hand, is entitled to import various firearms for reference, test and evaluation for manufacture of similar, types of firearms covered by the License to Manufacture.

An export permit shall, however, be necessary to export manufactured parts or finished products of firearms and ammunition. The Export Permit of firearms and ammunition shall be under the administration of the PNP.

Section 15. Registration of Locally Manufactured and Imported Firearms. – Local manufacturers and importers of firearms and major parts thereof shall register the same as follows:

(a) For locally manufactured firearms and major parts thereof, the initial registration shall be done at the manufacturing facility: Provided, That firearms intended for export shall no longer be subjected to ballistic identification procedures; and

(b) For imported firearms and major parts thereof, the registration shall be done upon arrival at the FEO of the PNP storage facility.

Section 16. License and Scope of License to Deal. – The License to Deal authorizes the purchase, sale and general business in handling firearms and ammunition, major and minor parts of firearms, accessories, spare parts, components, and reloading machines, which shall be issued by the Chief of the PNP.

Section 17. License and Scope of License for Gunsmiths. – The license for gunsmiths shall allow the grantee to repair registered firearms. The license shall include customization of firearms from finished or manufactured parts thereof on per order basis and not in commercial quantities and making the minor parts thereof, i.e. pins, triggers, trigger bows, sights and the like only for the purpose of repairing the registered firearm. The license for gunsmiths shall be issued by the Chief of the PNP.

Section 18. Firearms for Use in Sports and Competitions. – A qualified individual shall apply for a permit to transport his/her registered firearm/s from his/her residence to the firing range/s and competition sites as may be warranted.

Section 19. Renewal of Licenses and Registration. – All types of licenses to possess a firearm shall be renewed every two (2) years. Failure to renew the license on or before the date of its expiration shall cause the revocation of the license and of the registration of the firearm/s under said licensee.

The registration of the firearm shall be renewed every four (4) years. Failure to renew the registration of the firearm on or before the date of expiration shall cause the revocation of the license of the firearm. The said firearm shall be confiscated or forfeited in favor of the government after due process.

The failure to renew a license or registration within the periods stated above on two (2) occasions shall cause the holder of the firearm to be perpetually disqualified from applying for any firearm license. The application for the renewal of the license or registration may be submitted to the FEO of the PNP, within six (6) months before the date of the expiration of such license or registration.

Section 20. Inspection and Inventory. – The Chief of the PNP or his/her authorized representative shall require the submission of reports, inspect or examine the inventory and records of a licensed manufacturer, dealer or importer of firearms and ammunition during reasonable hours.

ARTICLE IV
ACQUISITION, DEPOSIT OF FIREARMS, ABANDONED, DEMILITARIZED AND ANTIQUE FIREARMS

Section 21. Acquisition or Purchase and Sale of Firearms and Ammunition. – Firearms and ammunition may only be acquired or purchased from authorized dealers, importers or local manufacturers and may be transferred or sold only from a licensed citizen or licensed juridical entity to another licensed citizen or licensed juridical entity: Provided, That, during election periods, the sale and registration of firearms and ammunition and the issuance of the corresponding licenses to citizens shall be allowed on the condition that the transport or delivery thereof shall strictly comply with the issuances, resolutions, rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission on Elections.

Section 22. Deposit of Firearms by Persons Arriving From Abroad. – A person arriving in the Philippines who is legally in possession of any firearm or ammunition in his/her country of origin and who has declared the existence of the firearm upon embarkation and disembarkation but whose firearm is not registered in the Philippines in accordance with this Act shall deposit the same upon written receipt with the Collector of Customs for delivery to the FEO of the PNP for safekeeping, or for the issuance of a permit to transport if the person is a competitor in a sports shooting competition. If the importation of the same is allowed and the party in question desires to obtain a domestic firearm license, the same should be undertaken in accordance with the provisions of this Act. If no license is desired or leave to import is not granted, the firearm or ammunition in question shall remain in the custody of the FEO of the PNP until otherwise disposed of in-accordance with law.

Section 23. Return of Firearms to Owner upon Departure from the Philippines. – Upon the departure from the Philippines of any person whose firearm or ammunition is in the custody of the FEO of the PNP, the same shall, upon timely request, be delivered to the person through the Collector of Customs. In the case of a participant in a local sports shooting competition, the firearm must be presented to the Collector of Customs before the same is allowed to be loaded on board the carrier on which the person is to board.

Section 24. Safekeeping of Firearms and Ammunition. – Any licensee may deposit a registered firearm to the FEO of the PNP, or any Police Regional Office for safekeeping. Reasonable fees for storage shall be imposed.

Section 25. Abandoned Firearms and Ammunition. – Any firearm or ammunition deposited in the custody of the FEO of the PNP pursuant to the provisions of this Act, shall be deemed to have been abandoned by the owner or his/her authorized representative if he/she failed to reclaim the same within five (5) years or failed to advise the FEO of the PNP of the disposition to be made thereof. Thereafter, the FEO of the PNP may dispose of the same after compliance with established procedures.

Section 26. Death or Disability of Licensee. – Upon the death or legal disability of the holder of a firearm license, it shall be the duty of his/her next of kin, nearest relative, legal representative, or other person who shall knowingly come into possession of such firearm or ammunition, to deliver the same to the FEO of the PNP or Police Regional Office, and such firearm or ammunition shall be retained by the police custodian pending the issuance of a license and its registration in accordance, with this Act. The failure to deliver the firearm or ammunition within six (6) months after the death or legal disability of the licensee shall render the possessor liable for illegal possession of the firearm.

Section 27. Antique Firearm. – Any person who possesses an antique firearm shall register the same and secure a collector’s license from the FEO of the PNP. Proper storage of antique firearm shall be strictly imposed. Noncompliance of this provision shall be considered as illegal possession of the firearm as penalized in this Act.

ARTICLE V
PENAL PROVISIONS

Section 28. Unlawful Acquisition, or Possession of Firearms and Ammunition. – The unlawful acquisition, possession of firearms and ammunition shall be penalized as follows:

(a) The penalty of prision mayor in its medium period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess a small arm;

(b) The penalty of reclusion temporal to reclusion perpetua shall be imposed if three (3) or more small arms or Class-A light weapons are unlawfully acquired or possessed by any person;

(c) The penalty of prision mayor in its maximum period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess a Class-A light weapon;

(d) The penalty of reclusion perpetua shall be imposed upon any person who shall, unlawfully acquire or possess a Class-B light weapon;

(e) The penalty of one (1) degree higher than that provided in paragraphs (a) to (c) in this section shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully possess any firearm under any or combination of the following conditions:

(1) Loaded with ammunition or inserted with a loaded magazine;

(2) Fitted or mounted with laser or any gadget used to guide the shooter to hit the target such as thermal weapon sight (TWS) and the like;

(3) Fitted or mounted with sniper scopes, firearm muffler or firearm silencer;

(4) Accompanied with an extra barrel; and

(5) Converted to be capable of firing full automatic bursts.

(f) The penalty of prision mayor in its minimum period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess a major part of a small arm;

(g) The penalty of prision mayor in its minimum period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess ammunition for a small arm or Class-A light weapon. If the violation of this paragraph is committed by the same person charged with the unlawful acquisition or possession of a small arm, the former violation shall be absorbed by the latter;

(h) The penalty of prision mayor in its medium period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess a major part of a Class-A light weapon;

(i) The penalty of prision mayor in its medium period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess ammunition for a Class-A light weapon. If the violation of this paragraph is committed by the same person charged with the unlawful acquisition or possession of a Class-A light weapon, the former violation shall be absorbed by the latter;

(j) The penalty of prision mayor in its maximum period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess a major part of a Class-B light weapon; and

(k) The penalty of prision mayor in its maximum period shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully acquire or possess ammunition for a Class-B light weapon. If the violation of this paragraph is committed by the same person charged with the unlawful acquisition or possession of a Class-B light weapon, the former violation shall be absorbed by the latter.

Section 29. Use of Loose Firearm in the Commission of a Crime. – The use of a loose firearm, when inherent in the commission of a crime punishable under the Revised Penal Code or other special laws, shall be considered as an aggravating circumstance: Provided, That if the crime committed with the use of a loose firearm is penalized by the law with a maximum penalty which is lower than that prescribed in the preceding section for illegal possession of firearm, the penalty for illegal possession of firearm shall be imposed in lieu of the penalty for the crime charged: Provided, further, That if the crime committed with the use of a loose firearm is penalized by the law with a maximum penalty which is equal to that imposed under the preceding section for illegal possession of firearms, the penalty of prision mayor in its minimum period shall be imposed in addition to the penalty for the crime punishable under the Revised Penal Code or other special laws of which he/she is found guilty.

If the violation of this Act is in furtherance of, or incident to, or in connection with the crime of rebellion of insurrection, or attempted coup d’ etat, such violation shall be absorbed as an element of the crime of rebellion or insurrection, or attempted coup d’ etat.

If the crime is committed by the person without using the loose firearm, the violation of this Act shall be considered as a distinct and separate offense.

Section 30. Liability of Juridical Person. – The penalty of prision mayor in its minimum to prision mayor in its medium period shall be imposed upon the owner, president, manager, director or other responsible officer of/any public or private firm, company, corporation or entity who shall willfully or knowingly allow any of the firearms owned by such firm, company, corporation or entity to be used by any person or persons found guilty of violating the provisions of the preceding section, or willfully or knowingly allow any of them to use unregistered firearm or firearms without any legal authority to be carried outside of their residence in the course of their employment.

Section 31. Absence of Permit to Carry Outside of Residence. – The penalty of prision correccional and a fine of Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) shall be imposed upon any person who is licensed to own a firearm but who shall carry the registered firearm outside his/her residence without any legal authority therefor.

Section 32. Unlawful Manufacture, Importation, Sale or Disposition of Firearms or Ammunition or Parts Thereof, Machinery, Tool or Instrument Used or Intended to be Used in the Manufacture of Firearms, Ammunition or Parts Thereof. – The penalty of reclusion temporal to reclusion perpetua shall be imposed upon any person who shall unlawfully engage in the manufacture, importation, sale or disposition of a firearm or ammunition, or a major part of a firearm or ammunition, or machinery, tool or instrument used or intended to be used by the same person in the manufacture of a firearm, ammunition, or a major part thereof.

The possession of any machinery, tool or instrument used directly in the manufacture of firearms, ammunition, or major parts thereof by any person whose business, employment or activity does not lawfully deal with the possession of such article, shall be prima facie evidence that such article is intended to be used in the unlawful or illegal manufacture of firearms, ammunition or parts thereof.

The penalty of prision mayor in its minimum period to prision mayor in its medium period shall be imposed upon any laborer, worker or employee of a licensed firearms dealer who shall unlawfully take, sell or otherwise dispose of parts of firearms or ammunition which the company manufactures and sells, and other materials used by the company in the manufacture or sale of firearms or ammunition. The buyer or possessor of such stolen part or material, who is aware that such part or material was stolen, shall suffer the same penalty as the laborer, worker or employee.

If the violation or offense is committed by a corporation, partnership, association or other juridical entity, the penalty provided for in this section shall be imposed upon the directors, officers, employees or other officials or persons therein who knowingly and willingly participated in the unlawful act.

Section 33. Arms Smuggling. – The penalty of reclusion perpetua shall be imposed upon any person who shall engage or participate in arms smuggling as defined in this Act.

Section 34. Tampering, Obliteration or Alteration of Firearms Identification. – The penalty of prision correccional to prision mayor in its minimum period shall be imposed upon any person who shall tamper, obliterate or alter without authority the barrel, slide, frame, receiver, cylinder, or bolt assembly, including the name of the maker, model, or serial number of any firearm, or who shall replace without authority the barrel, slide, frame, receiver, cylinder, or bolt assembly, including its individual or peculiar identifying characteristics essential in forensic examination of a firearm or light weapon.

The PNP shall place this information, including its individual or peculiar identifying characteristics into the database of integrated firearms identification system of the PNP Crime Laboratory for future use and identification of a particular firearm.

Section 35. Use of an Imitation Firearm. – An imitation firearm used in the commission of a crime shall be considered a real firearm as defined in this Act and the person who committed the crime shall be punished in accordance with this Act: Provided, That injuries caused on the occasion of the conduct of competitions, sports, games, or any recreation activities involving imitation firearms shall not be punishable under this Act.

Section 36. In Custodia Legis. – During the pendency of any case filed in violation of this Act, seized firearm, ammunition, or parts thereof, machinery, tools or instruments shall remain in the custody of the court. If the court decides that it has no adequate means to safely keep the same, the court shall issue an order to turn over to the PNP Crime Laboratory such firearm, ammunition, or parts thereof, machinery, tools or instruments in its custody during the pendency of the case and to produce the same to the court when so ordered. No bond shall be admitted for the release of the firearm, ammunition or parts thereof, machinery, tool or instrument. Any violation of this paragraph shall be punishable by prision mayor in its minimum period to prision mayor in its medium period.

Section 37. Confiscation and Forfeiture. – The imposition of penalty for any violation of this Act shall carry with it the accessory penalty of confiscation and forfeiture of the firearm, ammunition, or parts thereof, machinery, tool or instrument in favor of the government which shall be disposed of in accordance with law.

Section 38. Liability for Planting Evidence. – The penalty of prision mayor in its maximum period shall be imposed upon any person who shall willfully and maliciously insert; place, and/or attach, directly or indirectly, through any overt or covert act, any firearm, or ammunition, or parts thereof in the person, house, effects, or in the immediate vicinity of an innocent individual for the purpose of implicating or incriminating the person, or imputing the commission of any violation of the provisions of this Act to said individual. If the person found guilty under this paragraph is a public officer or employee, such person shall suffer the penalty of reclusion perpetua.

Section 39. Grounds for Revocation, Cancellation or Suspension of License or Permit. – The Chief of the PNP or his/her authorized representative may revoke, cancel or suspend a license or permit on the following grounds:

(a) Commission of a crime or offense involving the firearm, ammunition, of major parts thereof;

(b) Conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude or any offense where the penalty carries an imprisonment of more than six (6) years;

(c) Loss of the firearm, ammunition, or any parts thereof through negligence;

(d) Carrying of the firearm, ammunition, or major parts thereof outside of residence or workplace without, the proper permit to carry the same;

(e) Carrying of the firearm, ammunition, or major parts thereof in prohibited places;

(f) Dismissal for cause from the service in case of government official and employee;

(g) Commission of any of the acts penalized under Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the "Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002″;

(h) Submission of falsified documents or misrepresentation in the application to obtain a license or permit;

(i) Noncompliance of reportorial requirements; and

(j) By virtue of a court order.

Section 40. Failure to Notify Lost or Stolen Firearm or Light Weapon. – A fine of Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) shall be imposed upon any licensed firearm holder who fails to report to the FEO of the PNP that the subject firearm has been lost or stolen within a period of thirty (30) days from the date of discovery.

Likewise, a fine of Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) shall be imposed upon any person holding a valid firearm license who changes residence or office address other than that indicated in the license card and fails within a period of thirty (30) days from said transfer to notify the FEO of the PNP of such change of address.

Section 41. Illegal Transfer/Registration of Firearms. – It shall be unlawful to transfer possession of any firearm to any person who has not yet obtained or secured the necessary license or permit thereof.

The penalty of prision correccional shall be imposed upon any person who shall violate the provision of the preceding paragraph. In addition, he/she shall be disqualified to apply for a license to possess other firearms and all his/her existing firearms licenses whether for purposes of commerce or possession, shall be revoked. If government-issued firearms, ammunition or major parts of firearms or light weapons are unlawfully disposed, sold or transferred by any law enforcement agent or public officer to private individuals, the penalty of reclusion temporal shall be imposed.

Any public officer or employee or any person who shall facilitate the registration of a firearm through fraud, deceit, misrepresentation or submission of falsified documents shall suffer the penalty of prision correccional.

ARTICLE VI
FINAL PROVISIONS

Section 42. Firearms Repository. – The FEO of the PNP shall be the sole repository of all firearms records to include imported and locally manufactured firearms and ammunition. Within one (1) year upon approval of this Act, all military and law enforcement agencies, government agencies, LGUs and government-owned or -controlled corporations shall submit an inventory of all their firearms and ammunition to the PNP.

Section 43. Final Amnesty. – Persons in possession of unregistered firearms and holders of expired license or unregistered firearms shall register and renew the same through the Final General Amnesty within six (6) months from the promulgation of the implementing rules and regulations of this Act. During the interim period of six (6) months, no person applying for license shall be charged of any delinquent payment accruing to the firearm subject for registration. The PNP shall conduct an intensive nationwide campaign to ensure that the general public is properly informed of the provisions of this Act.

Section 44. Implementing Rules and Regulations. – Within one hundred twenty (120) days from the effectivity of this Act, the Chief of the PNP, after public hearings and consultation with concerned sectors of society shall formulate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act to be published in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation.

Section 45. Repealing Clause. – This Act repeals Sections 1, 2, 5 and 7 of Presidential Decree No. 1866, as amended, and Section 6 of Republic Act No. 8294 and all other laws, executive orders, letters of instruction, issuances, circulars, administrative orders, rules or regulations that are inconsistent herewith.

Section 46. Separability Clause. – If any provision of this Act or any part thereof is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain valid and subsisting.

Section 47. Effectivity. – This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days from its publication in a newspaper of nationwide circulation.

Approved,


(Sgd.) JUAN PONCE ENRILE
President of the Senate (Sgd.) FELICIANO BELMONTE JR.
Speaker of the House of Representatives
This Act which is a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 3397 and House Bill No. 5484 was finally passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives on February 4, 2013, and February 5, 2013, respectively.


(Sgd.) EDWIN B. BELLEN
Acting Senate Secretary

(Sgd.) MARILYN B. BARUA-YAP
Secretary-General
House of Representatives

Approved: May 29, 2013

(Sgd.) BENIGNO S. AQUINO III
President of the Philippines

Bar Exam Question (2000)

Illegal Possession of Firearms & Ammunitions (2000)

A has long been wanted by the police authorities for various crimes committed by him. Acting on an information by a tipster, the police proceeded to an apartment where A was often seen. The tipster also warned the policemen that A was always armed. At the given address, a lady who introduced herself as the elder sister of A, opened the door and let the policemen in inside, the team found A sleeping on the floor. Immediately beside him was a clutch bag which, when opened, contained a .38 caliber paltik revolver and a hand grenade. After verification, the authorities discovered that A was not a licensed holder of the .38 caliber paltik revolver. As for the hand grenade, it was established that only military personnel are authorized to carry hand grenades. Subsequently, A was charged with the crime of Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition. During trial, A maintained that the bag containing the unlicensed firearm and hand grenade belonged to B, his friend, and that he was not in actual possession thereof at the time he was arrested. Are the allegations meritorious? Explain.

Suggested Answer:

A's allegations are not meritorious. Ownership is not an essential element of the crime of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. What the law requires is merely possession, which includes not only actual physical possession but also constructive possession where the firearm and explosive are subject to one's control and management. (People us. De Grecia, 233 SCRA 716; U.S. vs. Juan,23 Phil. 105: People vs. Soyag, 110 Phil. 565).