A nationwide gun ban took effect Sunday in the Philippines to stave off any increase in political violence as elections draw closer, officials said.
Elections in the Philippines are almost always bloody, mainly because of the dominance of political dynasties, the presence of nearly 70 private armies and militias and the proliferation of what are called “loose firearms” — mostly unlicensed and unregistered weapons.
But what does it actually mean when they say "gun ban?" As it turns out, it simply means you have to leave your guns at home, that's all. It's certainly nothing nearly as dramatic as a gun confiscation.
What's interesting is they think it's necessary. They think, based on past experience, that the folks who own guns cannot be trusted with them during the volatile election period. That's pretty much the way gun control people in America feel about concealed carry permit holders.
But, in all fairness, maybe your average gun owner in the Philippines is much more dangerous and untrustworthy than his American counterpart.
What's your opinion? Please leave a comment.
Governments always seems to think it's necessary to disarm everyone - except for government agents, of course. Guns would have been banned here in the US long ago, I believe, were it not for limitations placed upon our government by the constitution.
ReplyDeleteIf elections are bloody, there's probably justification. I'm not allowed to take my gun when I vote, either.
ReplyDeleteAs far as license holders in general-Do you have evidence that places where license holders are typically more bloody than places where we aren't?
The problems we have here with guns aren't generally related to CCW holders, or even people who could get a license.
Yeah! you're right there, "A nationwide gun ban took effect Sunday in the Philippines to stave off any increase in political violence as elections draw closer, officials said." I'm just hope for a clean and safe election this 2010. nyway, I've been looking for topics as interesting as this. Looking forward to your next post.
ReplyDelete-pia-