On Wednesday Philippine President Benigno Aquino III came out against proposals calling for a blanket gun ban throughout the country, insisting that private citizens had the right to self-defense.
Labeling the proposals as a “knee jerk reaction,” the President instead expressed his preference for increasing sanctions on violators of firearm laws already on the books. The President is well renowned as an enthusiastic target shooter.
Following a rash of shooting incidents last year, advocacy groups have upped their pressure on the government to take a harder line on gun control issues. According to the Manila Standard Today, there are presently about 20 pending measures in Congress related to gun legislation. One possible measure under consideration would prevent civilians from carrying firearms outside of the household.
Groups such as Pro-Gun Philippines are also calling for stricter measures including tougher ownership screening procedures and greater emphasis on tracking down loose firearms.
