Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced on Saturday that the agency plans to petition the Supreme Court to authorize police inspections of firearm storage within the homes of licensed gun owners. The proposed measure aims to ensure that firearms are kept in accordance with safety regulations.
Speaking at a press briefing at Camp Crame, Remulla stated that the initiative follows a series of recent school-based shooting incidents, including one in South Cotabato. He noted that these events highlighted issues regarding irresponsible gun ownership and improper safekeeping, which allowed unauthorized individuals to access weapons.
Remulla acknowledged that current Supreme Court rulings restrict the Philippine National Police from conducting warrantless inspections inside private residences. He argued that the state should have the authority to verify that licensed owners are utilizing proper safety containers and complying with storage requirements. He emphasized that firearm ownership in the Philippines is a privilege rather than a constitutional right, and therefore carries significant responsibilities.
The DILG is coordinating with the Department of Justice to draft the petition. This effort is part of a broader government response directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has tasked the DILG, the Department of Education, and the Philippine National Police with strengthening school security and preventing minors from accessing firearms.
Remulla stated that the government is currently reviewing existing protocols, including access control measures and the identification of warning signs, to improve safety. He is expected to present updated guidelines to the President on Monday.
Article source: tribune.net.ph | Image credit: tribune.net.ph