Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla is calling for tougher penalties against illegal possession of loose firearms, including making the offense non-bailable and punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
His proposal follows the recent school shooting in Zamboanga City, where a Grade 9 student reportedly accessed firearms left inside his father’s vehicle.
Remulla said existing penalties are not strong enough to deter illegal firearm possession because suspects can post bail while their cases are pending.
He also emphasized that licensed gun ownership comes with responsibility and proposed allowing authorities to inspect the homes of gun owners to ensure firearms are properly secured.
Congressional leaders are now working on possible amendments to the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act to strengthen gun-control measures.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 26, 2026
