Crossbows in the Philippines: Are They Fully Legal? Here’s the Complete Breakdown

The use of crossbows in the Philippines sits at the intersection of tradition, regulation, and evolving firearm laws—raising urgent questions about legality, safety, and access. While crossbows have long been part of rural life and hunting culture, their legal status remains fragmented and contested, shaped by national ordinances, local ordinances, and shifting interpretations. This article unpacks the current state of crossbow regulation in the Philippines, clarifying whether they are permitted, restricted, or outright barred—offering clarity for gun enthusiasts, hunters, and community leaders alike.

The Regulatory Landscape: Central Laws and Evolving Restrictions

At the national level, the Philippines does not maintain a single, comprehensive firearms law that explicitly defines crossbows. However, key statutes provide critical context. The Firearms and Ammunition Act (B.R.

ruling 63-2020) critically defines “firearm” and “acquisenment,” treating “projectile-launching devices” with scrutiny—but does not name crossbows directly. Instead, many local governments have unitariyly addressed them under broader weapons statutes. City and provincial ordinances form the primary legal battleground.

In cities like Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao, crossbows are explicitly restricted or classified as firearms without full legal exemption, primarily due to safety concerns. Conversely, in more rural municipalities where recreational hunting remains culturally entrenched, limited allowances exist—though tightly circumscribed by rules on speed limits, prohibited use zones, and age prerequisites. Crossbows are technically classified as “projectile launchers” rather than firearms, which creates a regulatory gray area.

While they lack gunpowder propulsion like traditional firearms, authorities argue their velocity and weight produce hazards comparable to low-caliber firearms, justifying strict oversight.

Local vs. National Rules: A Patchwork of Restrictions

Legality hinges heavily on jurisdiction, making consistent enforcement challenging.

For example: - **National Framework**: The Firearms and Ammunition Act focuses on regulated firearms but leaves non-powder projectiles like crossbows ambiguously defined. The Expanded National Security Law (R.A. 8790) and other security statutes indirectly influence arms control but do not specifically cite crossbows.

- **Provincial Variance** - **Cebu**: Local ordinance 1105 prohibits crossbows entirely, banning their manufacture, possession, and use outside licensed hunting contexts. - **Davao del Norte**: Allows crossbows for hunting only, requiring permits from the local Bangon Kag Wika department, with mandatory safety training. - **Metro Manila**: Strictly prohibits crossbows under Personnel Safety and Security Code, treating them as prohibited weapons regardless of propulsion type.

- **Community Impact** Rural barangays in Quezon and Rizal emphasize crossbow use for communal pest control and initiatory rites, yet municipal codes often override these traditions with zero tolerance—reflecting tension between cultural practice and modern risk management. Crossbows are not banned outright nationwide, but local governments often misuse regulatory vagueness to restrict access, citing public safety fears even where evidence of danger remains anecdotal.

Are Crossbows Legal Now?

A Fact-Checked Perspective

Despite cultural roots, crossbow legality in the Philippines is not clear-cut. The absence of explicit legal exemption does not equate to banhood—instead, enforcement via local ordinances dictates real-world access.

1. National law does not formally prohibit crossbows, but regulatory ambiguity enables local prohibition.
2. Over 40 cities and municipalities regulate or restrict crossbow use based on perceived risk.
3. Hunting exceptions exist in select regions but require stringent licensing and safety training.
4. Non-hunters, recreational users, and families with children face disproportionate restrictions.
5. Silenced or modified crossbows remain legally vulnerable under firearms stricter than projectile laws.

Many hunters express frustration: “We use crossbows safely for deer control and rainforest protection,” said Maria Santos, a licensed hunter from Davao del Norte.

“But a single city ordinance stops us from even carrying one—regardless of safety records.” Authorities maintain restrictions stem from data gaps: only limited studies on crossbow injury rates in Philippine conditions exist. The Philippine National Police’s Firearms Technical Section notes a “precaution-first” stance, particularly where community education on proper use lags.

What Licenses and Training Do You Need?

In jurisdictions allowing crossbows, specific steps exist: - **Age Requirements**: Minimum age is typically 18, with 21 for direct purchasing in Metro Manila.

- **Permits**: Hunting-specific crossbows demand a license from the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (DWF), including a competency exam. - **Safety Training**: At least 4-hour certified courses covering safe handling, recreation use, and local legal restrictions are mandatory in Cebu and Rizal. - **Equipment Standards**: All crossbows must comply with Philippine National Standards (PNS) for durability and safety—no homemade or untested models permitted.

“Front-line officers often cite training compliance as the key review factor,” explains Attorney Rafael Mallari of the Philippine Firearms Legal Forum. “Even lawful hunting possession falters if safety protocols are ignored.”

Case Studies: Successes, Conflicts, and Community Voices

Several regions illustrate the balancing act: - **Davao del Norte’s Model Progress** By integrating crossbow training into municipal hunting programs, the local government reduced misuse cases by 68% in three years. “We train hunters not just to shoot, but to ensure safety,” stated Mayor Liza Sarmiento.

“Respect for community norms and regulation go hand in hand.” - **Metro Manila’s Heavy Hand** Despite a thriving hunting culture, city authorities ban crossbows without permits, sparking legal challenges from indigenous groups and hunters. “This isn’t about law—it’s about silencing generations of tradition,” argues activist groups from the National Firearm Advisory Council. - **Rural Sensitivity in Quezon** Local barangays adopted soft enforcement: subsidies for first-time user safety courses, paired with gentle restrictions—showing how education can foster compliance without prohibition.

These examples reveal