Solon wants production and sale of imitation firearms banned

A Mindanao lawmaker is seeking to prohibit the manufacture and sale of toy look-alike or imitation firearms, which he claimed have contributed to the rising criminality in the country.

Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriquez said there is no law prohibiting the manufacture or production of imitation firearms, which can be used by lawless elements in the commission of crimes against persons.

Rodriguez said his proposal embodied in House Bill 3426 would protect the welfare of citizens.

The proposal defines "toy-alike or imitation firearm" as any imitation of any original firearm which was manufactured, designed and produced since 1898, including toy guns, water guns, replica non-guns and airsoft guns firing non-metallic projectiles.

Under the proposal, it shall be unlawful for any person to produce, manufacture, sell, use, ship, transport, give or receive any toy look-alike or imitation firearm unless such firearm contains, or has affixed to it, a marking approved by the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry.

The required DTI's distinctive marking for imitation firearms shall have as an integral part, a permanently affixed, blaze orange pulp inserted in their barrel. Such plug shall be recessed no more than 6 millimeters from the muzzle end of the barrel.

The proposal further provides that the DTI chief may provide for an alternative marking or device for any imitation firearm not capable of being marked and may waive the requirement of any such marking or device for any imitation firearm that will only be used in the theatrical, film or television industry.

Any offenders shall be fined with P50,000 or imprisoned for at least six months, or both at the discretion of the court. The Philippine National Police director-general shall be directed to conduct a study of the criminal misuse of imitation firearms, the bill provides.

Source: Public Relations and Information Department
www.congress.gov.ph
Writer: Writer: Rowena B. Bundang, PRID