Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla has called for stronger legal provisions that would hold firearm owners criminally liable when their registered guns are used by others to commit crimes, saying existing laws lack sufficient accountability mechanisms.
Speaking at a press briefing in Camp Crame, Remulla said current regulations under Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and its implementing rules do not clearly impose criminal liability on gun owners whose firearms are involved in criminal acts committed by unauthorized users.
“People have to be responsible gun owners or gun operators. People have to take accountability. Sa nangyari dito, wala kaming ma-charge dahil bitin ang batas,” he said.
Remulla said the present legal framework limits possible charges and leaves gaps in assigning responsibility, particularly in cases where firearms are legally registered but later used in unlawful incidents.
“There is an infirmity in the law. Walang concomitant criminal responsibility ang gun owner kung gagamitin ng iba ang baril nila,” he added.
The DILG chief pointed to the recent school shooting incident in Tacloban City, where one of the firearms used reportedly belonged to a police officer, who is now facing charges and administrative proceedings before the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM).
He said private gun owners, meanwhile, are typically exposed only to civil liability, similar to licensed security agencies whose registered firearms may be used in crimes.
Remulla stressed that firearm ownership carries strict responsibility, including proper storage and ensuring that weapons remain inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.
“Kung ikaw ay may service firearm, dapat naka-lock ‘yan. Dapat walang ibang nakakakuha,” he said.
He urged Congress to revisit and strengthen firearm laws to include clearer criminal provisions for negligence and improper transfer or supervision of licensed weapons.
“I recommend that we rewrite the law on gun ownership and include criminal aspects for illegal use or negligent handling of firearms,” he noted.
He also called on gun rights advocates and stakeholders to work with policymakers in crafting reforms that would strengthen accountability and help prevent firearm-related violence in schools and other public spaces.