Politics · Philippines Bureau
Remulla pushes Congress to tighten Robin Padilla firearms law
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has called for amendments to the Robin Padilla law, arguing that making loose firearm possession non-bailable is necessary to stem rising crime rates. The current legislation, which decriminalized certain firearm offenses, has been criticized for enabling criminal activity.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Wednesday urged Congress to amend the Robin Padilla law, proposing that possession of loose firearms be classified as a non-bailable offense.
Remulla contended that the existing law, which removed culpability for certain firearm violations and made such offenses bailable, has inadvertently contributed to a surge in crime-related incidents nationwide. He argued that the provision allowing bail for loose firearm possession has become counterproductive to public safety efforts.
The Robin Padilla law, officially known as the Bagong Katangian ng Pilipinas Act, was enacted to provide amnesty and rehabilitation pathways for certain firearm-related offenses. However, law enforcement officials have increasingly blamed the measure for enabling criminals to return to the streets quickly through bail arrangements.
Remulla's proposal seeks to close what he views as a significant loophole in the legislation. By removing the bailable status of loose firearm possession, authorities argue the amendment would serve as a stronger deterrent and keep individuals accused of unauthorized firearm possession detained during trial proceedings.
The call for amendments comes amid ongoing national concerns about illegal firearms circulation and their connection to violent crimes across the country.