PH Faces 2 Million Loose Firearms, DILG Pushes for Stricter Gun Control

An estimated two million loose firearms are circulating in the Philippines, with these unlicensed weapons being used in 98% of crimes committed in the country, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) revealed. During a budget hearing at the Senate, Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that the agency is utilizing its confidential funds for intelligence gathering as they prepare to propose amendments to the so-called Robin Padilla Law. This law, officially Republic Act (RA) 8294, amended Presidential Decree No. 1866 and previously made unlawful possession of firearms a bailable offense. "We estimate in the range of the high of two million," Remulla said when asked by Sen. JV Ejercito about the number of unlicensed firearms nationwide. Ejercito expressed surprise at the figure, noting that previous estimates were only around 500,000 to 600,000. Remulla emphasized the critical link between loose firearms and criminal activity, stating, "Ninety-eight percent of the crimes committed in the Philippines use loose firearms, so we feel it best that if we do catch them and we do have search warrants, that the charges be non-bailable." He noted that owners of loose firearms often tend to be recidivists, committing further crimes after being granted bail. The DILG chief clarified that the remaining two percent of armed crimes involved licensed guns, typically occurring within homes or sometimes when a child gains access to the firearm. The DILG is also advocating for greater accountability for licensed gun owners, proposing that they share responsibility if their legally owned firearms are stolen and used in criminal acts. The revelation highlights the pervasive issue of illegal firearms in the Philippines and raises concerns about the effectiveness of current gun control measures. The government's move to amend the law signals an intent to tighten regulations and enhance public safety.