Remulla wants 20 years, no bail for loose firearms

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla is pushing to make illegal possession of loose firearms a non-bailable offense punishable by up to 20 years in prison following the recent school shooting in Zamboanga City.

“Non-bailable and then 20 years in prison,” Remulla said when asked about the amendments he wants to the country’s firearms law.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) chief said current penalties provide insufficient deterrence because those caught illegally possessing loose firearms can post bail while their cases are pending.

“Now, when you catch someone with loose firearms, it’s bailable. Lalabas ka lang. You have a record pero bailable, then you go to a hearing,” he said.

Remulla said congressional leaders are working on amendments to the law and expect expedited action on the measure.

“I think it will be done by January. They’re gonna rush it,” he said.

“If we do that, we can solve so many crimes,” he added.

Remulla also called for greater accountability among licensed firearm owners, saying the privilege of owning a gun comes with the responsibility of keeping it secured and inaccessible to unauthorized persons.

“Gun ownership also carries with it gun responsibility. The government should have the right to inspect their homes at any time and to see if the guns are in safekeeping at any time,” he said.

“It is a privilege granted in the Philippines. It is a privilege, not a right.”

His proposal comes after a minor gained access to legally owned firearms reportedly left inside a vehicle and used them in the Zamboanga City school shooting.

Remulla said the incident underscored the need for stricter enforcement of firearm policies, particularly among uniformed personnel entrusted with government-issued weapons.

“We have to be strict with all our policies with uniformed personnel and let them realize the gravity of the situation that’s happening,” he said.