The Philippine National Police (PNP) is stepping up its nationwide campaign urging licensed firearm owners to practice responsible handling and secure storage, following a series of firearm-related incidents involving minors.
PNP chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the Civil Security Group has launched the “Gun Safety Advocacy Campaign” to reinforce the responsibility that comes with lawful firearm ownership. The campaign emphasizes proper handling, secure storage and preventing unauthorized people from gaining access to firearms.
The campaign carries the message, “Own a gun responsibly. Gun safety is a continuing duty.” Police regional offices and local units have been directed to intensify public information efforts, while the Civil Security Group will conduct gun-safety seminars and engage with stakeholders nationwide.
Nartatez said recent incidents involving minors demonstrate the need for firearm safety to become an everyday practice, not simply a matter of complying with licensing requirements. The PNP said prevention and public education are key parts of reducing the risk of firearms falling into unauthorized hands.
The renewed campaign follows several school shooting incidents in the Philippines in recent months. Authorities have raised concerns about how minors were able to gain access to firearms that were legally owned or issued to adults.
The issue has also prompted discussions about strengthening existing safeguards. A proposed House measure seeks stricter safe-storage requirements, mandatory gun-safety training, tougher penalties for unauthorized access and accountability for firearm owners and custodians.
The PNP’s campaign therefore places greater emphasis on prevention, reminding firearm holders that securing a weapon is an ongoing responsibility. The police force said responsible ownership includes ensuring that firearms remain inaccessible to people who are not legally authorized to possess them.
