Manila: Possession of loose firearms must be a non-bailable offense and must carry a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment. This was pushed by Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla as the government moves to strengthen the country's firearms law following the recent school shooting in Zamboanga City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla emphasized the need for stronger penalties to deter the illegal possession and use of firearms. He urged lawmakers to amend Republic Act 11766, also known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, which is often referred to as the 'Robin Padilla Law.' Remulla highlighted that almost all gun-related crimes involved loose firearms, pointing out that the existing penalties are inadequate as offenders can still post bail while their cases are pending.

Remulla proposed that possession of loose firearms should be non-bailable with a 20-year prison sentence. He noted that the current regulations allow offenders to be released on bail, which he believes diminishes the deterrent effect of the law. The DILG chief called for swift amendments to the current legislation, stressing that stronger penalties could have a broader impact on reducing gun-related criminality.

He expressed optimism about the progress of the proposed amendments, stating that congressional leaders are expediting action on the measure, with an expected completion by January. Remulla also highlighted the need for greater accountability among licensed firearm owners, emphasizing that the privilege of firearm ownership comes with the responsibility of securing them properly.

The call for stricter firearm regulations comes after a school shooting in Zamboanga City, where a minor accessed legally owned firearms left inside a vehicle. Remulla pointed out that this incident underscores the necessity to review and enforce firearm policies, especially concerning uniformed personnel with government-issued weapons.