MANILA, Philippines—Too many gun accidents are caused by ignorance and negligence.

Thus a bill filed in the House of Representatives would make it mandatory for would-be gun owners to undergo training in their safe use, maintenance and storage before being issued a permit to own or carry a firearm.

The measure’s sponsor, Alliance for Rural Concerns party-list Rep. Narciso Santiago, noted that many fatal firearm accidents were caused by people who knew nothing or little about responsible gun ownership.

“The proliferation of handguns has caused untoward incidents involving irresponsible individuals who lack the knowledge and skills for their safe use, maintenance and storage,” Santiago said in a statement.

Thus, he said, there should be regulations covering the issuance of handgun permits, and one of this is a mandatory course on the safe use, maintenance and storage of such weapons.

Under the bill, an agency under the Philippine National Police or an entity designated by it would administer the training course.

Those who fail to comply with the regulation would be fined up to P50,000 and their weapon would be confiscated.

Gun accidents, often with fatal results, are not uncommon in the Philippines, with many involving law enforcers.

Last year, a policeman in Roxas City accidentally shot his wife dead when the gun he was playing with went off.