The Philippine National Police (PNP) appealed to the Senate Monday to pass its proposed gun control measures, which it said, will add more teeth to existing laws that penalize illegal possession of firearms.

This came after the House of Representatives approved on third reading House Bill 6776, a measure that seeks stiffer penalties for illegal possession of firearms and light weapons, amending some provisions of Presidential Decree 1866.

The proposed legislative measure has been elevated to the Senate for ratification into law.

Director General Jesus Verzosa, PNP chief, explained that their proposal is part of their anti-criminality campaign, especially against criminal syndicates which have been using high-powered firearms in their illegal activities in Metro Manila and other areas in the country.

“The PNP sought for stiffer gun control measures in the wake of a series of high-profile crime incidents in Metro Manila committed with the use of guns wherein several persons, including police officers were killed,” said Verzosa.

"It’s high time that law enforcement should be given stronger legal foundation to enable us to act decisively with the full might of the law behind us against persons in possession of loose firearms, especially those used in criminal activity," he added.

Among other provisions, the proposed measure seeks to make the illegal possession of three or more firearms a non-bailable offense punishable by life imprisonment.

The same measure seeks to criminalize other offenses relating to firearms and light weapons, including possession, manufacture, sale, acquisition or disposition of firearms, ammunition and explosives or instruments used in the manufacture of firearms, ammunition and explosives.

The proposed amendments to PD1866 also impose strict guidelines and grounds for revocation, cancellation and suspension of firearms license and permits.

Verzosa said the proposed gun control measures are contained in the legislative agenda of the National Firearms Control program.