Failure to report stolen firearm

Failure to report stolen firearm "My pistol was stolen from our house. I am unable to report the theft of my pistol to the police due to my busy schedule. Will I be penalized for my inaction? PhilipDear Philip, The law that addresses your situation is Section 40 of Republic Act 10591, or better known as “Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act”:“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 (Firearm and Explosive Office) of the (Philippine National Police) of such change of address” (Emphasis supplied). It is clear from the cited provision that failure on the part of the licensed firearm holder to report to the FEO of the PNP within a period of 30 days from the date of discovery of the loss or theft shall subject the owner to a fine amounting to P10,000. In your situation, should you fail to report to the FEO that your pistol has been lost or stolen within 30 days from discovery thereof, you can be penalized with a fine of 10,000.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.Editor’s note: Dear PAO is a daily column of the Public Attorney’s Office. Questions for chief Acosta may be sent to " - https://www.affordablecebu.com/