MANILA, Philippines — Apart from barangay officials, President Duterte is considering allowing college students undergoing the Reserve Officers’ Training Course (ROTC) to carry .22-caliber revolvers or shotguns for self-defense.
Speaking before newly elected barangay captains in Region 10 at the Limketkai Atrium in Cagayan de Oro last Monday, Duterte said he is consulting his security officials, including Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, to determine if ROTC graduates can acquire high-caliber firearms.
Duterte sees the arming of civilians as a solution to fight for survival, drawing parallels to the situation in the Middle East and referring to extremists in the region.
“If it’s terrorism and they would do it just like in any other place in the Middle East, then that is the time we will have to fight for our survival,” he said.
Duterte allayed the fears of barangay officials that they might get killed when accosting criminals, so arming them would be good for self-defense.
The President was quick to say that every barangay official or any individual who wants to carry a gun should undergo the proper procedure under the law.
“Now, the fear of the barangays really is – according to General Año – they are afraid to confront… so a shotgun or .22 (caliber) will do. If you hit him in the head with a .22, that’s it, it’s bingo time,” Duterte said in mixed Filipino and Visayan dialect.
A gun aficionado, Duterte said he would fight a battle even if he only carries a .22 revolver.
“I will fight even .22 caliber as long as I have a gun. I will target you in the head and chest. There is a big chance that (I will hit) the chest,” he said.
Duterte said a bullet could be fatal if it pierces the internal organs.
“If it passes through your pancreas, liver, you only have 30 minutes to live, believe me. Even if they bring you to the hospital. You are extraordinary if you survive,” he said.
Duterte said he would allow the public bidding for the guns once he gets enough funds for them.
“You know, if you – if you carry these things, be sure that you are carrying it legally. We will conduct seminars before you… maybe I will allow you. But to carry an Armalite (M16 rifle) it’s out of the question,” he said.
Duterte said he will not also allow civilians to carry M-14 rifles.