Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Friday expressed support for legislative efforts to hold negligent gun owners accountable if they fail to properly secure their firearms, particularly in households with minors.

Nartatez said that while firearms are effective tools for self-defense and home protection, they can also be dangerous if they fall into the hands of children, citing similar incidents in the past.

“Gun ownership is a privilege that comes with a big responsibility that also includes ensuring that firearms are kept safe and well-secured. This privilege should not be given to people who are not capable of meeting gun ownership conditions,” Nartatez said.

He said this is why the PNP has intensified its campaign against loose firearms, stressing that guns become dangerous when they fall into the wrong hands.

He cited the recent incident at a school in Tacloban City as an example.

“We in the PNP fully trust the wisdom of lawmakers on the proposed measure pushing for liability of gun owners who are residing with minors and failed to secure their weapons,” Nartatez said.

The statement came as lawmakers deliberate House Bill 10058, which seeks to hold gun owners living with minors liable if they fail to safely secure their firearms.

Under the proposal, firearm owners would be required to keep their guns in tamper-resistant safes or face civil liability and the revocation of their firearm licenses. The bill also directs the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office to verify compliance during periodic inspections and firearm license renewals.