Yes, stun guns are legal in the Philippines but only for law enforcement and authorized security personnel under strict conditions. Civilian possession without permits is prohibited, and unauthorized use may result in criminal liability under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act and local ordinances. The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Security Industry Regulatory Office (SIRO) enforce these restrictions, with recent 2026 amendments tightening compliance for security agencies.
Key Regulations for Stun Guns in Philippines
- Permit-to-Carry (PTC) Requirement: Civilians must secure a PTC from the PNP’s Firearms and Explosives Office (FEO) to legally possess a stun gun, subject to stringent background checks and justifiable need.
- Security Personnel Authorization: Only licensed security guards under SIRO-approved agencies may carry stun guns, with mandatory training and inventory reporting to the PNP.
- Prohibited Use: Stun guns cannot be deployed in altercations, as their use against unarmed individuals may violate the Revised Penal Code (Articles 248–250) on physical harm, leading to felony charges.
Local government units (LGUs) may impose additional restrictions via city/municipal ordinances, particularly in high-density urban areas. The Act Providing for a Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition (RA 10591) and its 2026 implementing rules govern stun gun classification as “lethal weapons” when misused, mandating immediate confiscation and prosecution for violations. Importation requires PNP clearance, and unauthorized sale or possession carries penalties up to ₱500,000 and 12 years imprisonment.