Right or privilege
Is owning a firearm a right or a privilege? This is the question raised by a Filipimo congressman in a public hearing for the purpose of introducing an amendment to the Firearms law under Republic Act 10591. Some stakeholders answered yes, its a right. Some answered that it is a privilege. However, none of them was able to give a satisfactory explanation for their stand. In the Philippines firearm ownership is considered to be a privilege. Hence, stringent requirements were imposed to acquire a license to possess a firearm. Along with the requirements were exorbitant fees that exacted a burden akin to paying an annual real property tax. The process exalted the concerned government agencies into profit centers rather than cost centers.The issue lies on whether it is indeed a privilege or a right. Because, if it is a right, a firearm need not be licensed. Let us try to delve on the issue with objectivity and impartiality. The substance of owning a firearm primarily rest on the co...