THE Philippine National Police (PNP) will conduct further study and a stakeholder consultation on the proposal to inspect residences where government-issued firearms are kept.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said such a measure will compel owners of government-issued firearms to be more responsible and compliant with the conditions set on gun ownership.
Consultations are necessary to ensure this move does not infringe on the rights of those involved, especially regarding privacy, since the proposal involves inspecting their homes.
“We are in the process of strengthening our measures to ensure that government-issued weapons are properly stored and kept. This will be studied carefully, and we assure that the concerns and sentiments of all involved sectors will be respected and factored in,” said Nartatez.
Late last week, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla proposed that police be given access to homes to inspect whether government-issued firearms are properly stored. He also said the implementing rules and regulations on gun storage and safekeeping should be amended to support the proposed measure.
The proposal arose from two cases of gun violence in schools in Tacloban City and Zamboanga City, both involving minor students whose firearms turned out to be government-issued.
Nartatez said any implementation of the proposed inspections must have clear procedures and safeguards that protect the rights of the gun owners, as well as the policemen from any form of harassment. He assured the public that the PNP's action on the proposal is within the bounds of the law and respects individual rights.
