The Philippine National Police (PNP) is open to any legislative effort that would hold accountable all gun owners if they fail to properly secure their firearms, particularly in households with minors.

The legislation was proposed following the Tacloban City gun attack when a PNP-issued gun and a revolver last registered to a security agency were used in the shooting of students early this month.

The incident left three students dead and 20 others injured—the first case of mass shooting in school in the country.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said that while firearms are one of the effective instruments for self-defense and home protection, they are also dangerous tool if they would land at the hands of children, citing cases of unfortunate incidents in the past.

“Gun ownership is a privilege that comes with a big responsibility that also include ensuring that firearms are kept safe and well-secured. This privilege should not be given to people who are not capable of meeting gun ownership conditions,” said Nartatez.

The statement came as lawmakers are deliberating House Bill No. 10058, which seeks to hold gun owners living with minors liable if they fail to safely secure their firearms.

Under the proposal, firearm owners would be required to keep their guns in tamper-resistant safes or face civil liability and the revocation of their firearm licenses. The bill also directs the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office to verify compliance during periodic inspections and firearm license renewals.

“We in the PNP fully trust the wisdom of lawmakers on the proposed measure pushing for liability of gun owners who are residing with minors and failed to secure their weapons,” Nartatez said.

He said the PNP remains prepared to provide technical recommendations should lawmakers seek the organization's assistance in refining the proposed measure.