Bishop Abet Uy of the Diocese of Tagbilaran expressed his vehement objection against priests carrying guns for protection amid concerns over the killing of three priests in the past six months.
Uy aired his personal stand on the issue with a resounding “no” through his Facebook page.
“PRIESTS TO CARRY GUNS. For me, it’s a Big NO,” said Uy.
Over 200 priests and religious leaders have recently requested the Philippine National Police (PNP) Firearms Office for Permits to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTFCOR).
This was confirmed by PNP chief Dir. Gen. Oscar Albayalde who noted that the requests came from priests, ministers, preachers and pastors.
He however did not identify them and indicate their locations.
According to Albayalde, 246 religious leaders requested for PTFCOR and 188 of them were Catholic priests.
The PNP for its part said that they are ready to administer firearms proficiency training for religious leaders who intend to acquire permits to carry firearms.
All PTCFOR applicants are to be subjected to a background investigation. (ad)