MANILA - The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday launched an online registration system that makes it easier for people to apply for a gun permit.

The PNP License to Own and Possess Firearms (LTOPF) and Firearms Registration System aims to get rid of the long hours of waiting in applying for a license.

"Through the online PNP LTOPF and Firearms Registration System, firearm owners can now apply for their LTOPF online, in the comforts of their homes or office, by registering at ltopf.pnp.gov.ph," explained Police Chief Superintendent Edwin Nemenzo, director of the PNP's Information Technology Management Service (ITMS).

Nemenzo said the new system is capable of validating and authenticating the submitted PNP neuro and psychiatric exam results, drug test results, and government-issued clearances.

Data are automatically filled in once the user types his existing National Bureau of Investigation ID number or Professional Regulation Commission ID. For renewal, one just needs to type the old LTOPF control number.

"Online applicants are assured of a streamlined processes and have the luxury to choose their desired scheduled. Most importantly, LTOPF and Firearm Registration can now be claimed not only in Camp Crame, Marikina, Cebu and Davao, but also in all police regional offices, particularly at the regional civil security units," Nemenzo said.

Applicants or their representatives are advised to strictly follow their preferred scheduled dates. Otherwise, their application will be processed just like any walk-in applicants, he added.

"We are appealing to the public na with the new system, lumipat na po kayo dito para mas mapabilis po ang pag apply, pag proseso at eliminate po natin ang graft and corruption at mas magiging convenient po ito sa inyo," said Police Chief Superintendent Cesar Binag, head of the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office.