Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is open to supporting tougher penalties for the illegal possession of firearms following fatal shooting incidents on school premises involving minors, Malacañang said Wednesday.
During a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro described as a “good” proposal Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s call for illegal possession of loose firearms to be punishable by up to 20 years in prison and classified as a non-bailable offense.
Castro said the proposal was aimed at strengthening public safety and protecting communities from gun-related violence. She added that Marcos would not oppose legislative measures designed to enhance the safety and security of Filipinos.
However, she stressed that the President would need to review the proposed legislation and its specific provisions before taking a definitive position.
“The President is open” to legislation that would impose stiffer penalties if it is deemed beneficial to the country and its citizens, Castro said, adding that the administration would wait for the proposed bills before determining its position.
Castro also emphasized the importance of responsible firearm ownership, saying that many deadly incidents could be prevented if gun owners exercised greater care in handling and securing their weapons. At the same time, she acknowledged that the illegal possession of loose firearms remains a separate issue requiring legislative attention.
She said Marcos would make a final determination after Congress passes legislation seeking tougher penalties for illegal possession of firearms.
Remulla on Tuesday urged Congress to amend Republic Act No. 11766, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, to make possession of loose firearms a non-bailable offense punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
The proposal comes amid heightened concern over firearm-related violence, particularly incidents involving minors and occurring within school premises, prompting renewed calls for stronger gun-control measures and greater accountability among firearm owners.
