Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Firearms → Philippines
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-07-25
Firearms import prohibited
Details
Firearms and ammunition are among the most strictly controlled items at international borders. Nearly every country requires advance import/export licenses for firearms. Many countries, including Japan, Australia, and the UK, effectively prohibit civ. Enforcement in Philippines carries fines from PHP 100,000 to PHP 10,000,000 under Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165); CMTA s.1401 (smuggling). In the reverse direction (taking firearms out of Philippines): prohibited — Philippines prohibits taking firearms out of the country without an advance export authorisation; licensed hunters and sport shooters are the main exception categories.
Leaving with this item
Philippines prohibits taking firearms out of the country without an advance export authorisation; licensed hunters and sport shooters are the main exception categories.
Practical advice
Do not bring firearms to this country. Penalties may be severe. If unsure, declare on arrival — declared goods at worst attract duty or surrender, while undeclared goods found in screening are seized and fined.
Customs authority
Bureau of Customs (BOC) · https://customs.gov.ph