Citation(s) from the GunPolicy.org literature library
Philippines. 2010 ‘Marking, Record Keeping and Tracing.’ National Report of the Philippines on its Implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UNPoA); Section 9, p. 13. New York, NY: Permanent Mission of Philippines to the United Nations. 1 January
Relevant contents
9. Marking, Record Keeping and Tracing
i) Does your country require licensed manufacturers of SALW [small arms and light weapons] to apply an appropriate and reliable marking on each weapon as an integral part of the production process?
Yes. PD 1866 as amended by RA 8249 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations require licensed manufacturers of SALW to apply an appropriate and reliable marking system on each weapon as an integral part of the production process.
To carry this out, in a memorandum issued on 15 August 1997 by the FED-PNP on "Firearms Description", the Philippines national Police (FED-PNP) requires firearms manufacturers to mark their products showing therein their distinctive or unique marks, the firearms model and serial numbers in at least three main parts of the firearms - the receiver, the barrel and the slide.
Buyers of these firearms are required to secure from our police authorities the appropriate license, which duly indicates the firearms type, make, calibre, and serial numbers. All firearms, including those in the possession of the PNP, the AFP, private security agencies, local government units (LGUs), government owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), and other concerned government agencies are likewise distinctively marked. Any removal or alterations of markings would be noticeable without any technical aid.
Furthermore, the Commission on Audit (COA) continues to assess the internal controls and policies adopted by concerned agencies whose main responsibility deals with the maintenance, safekeeping, and custody of government firearms. COA supports a nationwide inventory-taking of firearms to be witnessed by their field auditors in order to arrive at the correct balance and pinpoint accountabilities.
ii) Is this marking unique?
Yes.
iii) Does this marking identify the country of manufacture?
Yes.
iv) How does this marking otherwise allow concerned authorities to identify and trace the relevant weapon?
The firearms descriptions are shown in the license and unlawful alteration of this nature is pre-empted and detected. Further, firearms data are all recorded in the Firearms Information Management System (FIMS)1 of FED-PNP in coordination with the Crime Laboratory.
v) How long are records kept on the manufacture, holding and transfer of SALW under your jurisdiction?
Records are kept and remains with the FED-PNP for as long as necessary.