Dear PAO,

I intend to acquire an old or antique firearm to add aesthetic beauty for my rustic-themed living spaces. I wonder if i could simply buy one and place the same in our house. is there a specific requirement for possessing an antique firearm?

Niccolo

Dear Niccolo,

The answer to your question is yes. For your guidance, Section 3 (c) of Republic Act (RA) 10591, otherwise known as the “Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act,” defines an antique firearm as follows: “(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.” (Emphasis and underscoring supplied).

Based on the foregoing, the physical profile, the look, or the fact that a firearm seems old does not automatically classify a firearm as antique. As mentioned, the same must have either of the following characteristics: one, a firearm which is at least seventy-five (75) years old; two, a firearm which is certified by the National Museum of the Philippines to be curio or relic of museum interest; or finally, a 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.

Pertinently, in the event that the firearm that you are referring to in your query pertains to either of the abovementioned classification, in order for you to legally possess the same, the requirements under Section 27 of RA 10591 must strictly be complied with, viz.: 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. (Emphasis and underscoring supplied).

Thus, in order to legally possess an antique firearm, it is indispensable that it is properly registered with the corresponding collector’s license from the Firearms and Explosive Office of the Philippine National Police. Moreover, the proper storage of the same must be faithfully employed at all instances. We hope that we were able to answer your queries.

This advice is based solely on the facts you have narrated and our appreciation of the same. Our opinion may vary when other facts are changed or elaborated.