Manila: Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that the nation requires a more robust legal framework to hold negligent firearm owners criminally accountable when their licensed weapons are used in crimes. Remulla's comments came during a press briefing at Camp Crame after a deadly shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School campus in Zamboanga City.
According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla urged lawmakers to amend Republic Act 11766, known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act or the 'Robin Padilla Law.' Remulla asserted that this law, which made possession of loose firearms a bailable offense, has contributed to a rise in crimes as it reduced the penalties for such offenses if the firearms were not used in committing a crime.
The shooting at the university was carried out by a Grade 8 student who subsequently took his own life. The gun involved was identified as government-issued, belonging to the student's father, an employee at the Bureau of Customs. The incident resulted in the death of a Grade 10 student and injuries to two other students, alongside causing panic and anxiety among several students.
Remulla emphasized the importance of reinforcing gun-safety training and making responsible firearm ownership extend beyond just obtaining a license. He argued that the government's role is to safeguard the public and maintain the social contract that ensures community safety. He proposed stricter accountability measures for firearm owners whose guns become accessible to minors and are used in crimes. He questioned the responsibility of gun owners in incidents involving children and highlighted the need for stricter rules for owners who fail to maintain their firearms properly.
Additionally, Remulla pointed to the influence of online platforms in the shooting incident, specifically mentioning the online game Roblox. He noted that while the game itself is not harmful, certain group chats within it may promote violence among young people. Remulla called on Congress to consider legislation to regulate first-person shooting games that may negatively impact young individuals.
