CCAA urges Marcos to veto gun law amendments, citing public safety risks

Climate Conflict Action Asia (CCAA) is urging President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. to veto proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, warning that these changes could endanger public safety and democratic stability.

The group noted that the amendments would shorten the election gun ban period from 90 days before and after election day to just 45 days and five days respectively, which is particularly risky given recent spikes in election-related violence.

CCAA also raised concerns over provisions increasing ammunition purchase limits and extending firearm permit validity periods, warning these could fuel black market flows and embolden misuse.

The advocacy group estimates that there are over 3.2 million illegal firearms nationwide and urged the Marcos administration to focus on curbing their spread by creating a dedicated police unit for illicit arms trafficking and strengthening registration pathways in conflict-prone areas like BARMM.