PNP, AFP members exempted from drug, psych tests to get gun licenses
Active members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can now be excused from taking drug tests as well as psychological and psychiatric examinations while they are securing a license to own and possess firearms (LTOPF).
According to a report by The Philippine STAR, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil initiated the move, noting that the officers are "already trained as responsible firearm holders."
Marbil said the drug test and psychological examinations taken by PNP and AFP members during their service are enough as requirements for gun permits.
He also pointed out that police officers regularly undergo drug tests and psychological and psychiatric examinations for when they apply for promotion or training school.
The PNP likewise conducts random drug tests on its officers and personnel as part of its internal cleansing drive, which Civil Security Group (CSG) spokesperson Lt. Col Eudisan Gultiano said "is being validated by the Health Service."
With the change, law enforcement officers are only required to submit their government-issued identification cards to process their firearm licenses.
The new policy, however, does not apply to members of other law enforcement agencies such as the National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Philippine Coast Guard.
Private citizens who want to own or renew their LTOPF must still undergo the required drug and neuro-psychiatric testing as they cannot be monitored after they obtain their licenses.
