Manila, Philippines – In a bold move that has ignited various reactions, Senator Robin Padilla has taken a firm stance by pushing for the reinstatement of the death penalty in the Philippines.
Padilla filed Senate Bill No. 2217, specifically amending the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, including capital punishment for law enforcement personnel and elected officials found guilty of involvement in the illegal drug trade.
Under the senator’s proposal, elected or incumbent officials who contribute, donate, or profit from drug trafficking shall likewise be executed from public office.
Padilla, known for his strong patriotism, argued that the current measures in place are inadequate in curbing the drug menace that continues to plague the nation.
In a passionate speech delivered during a Senate session, he emphasized the need for stronger deterrents to combat the drug trade, particularly among those who are sworn to uphold the law.
He stressed that targeting law enforcement and elected officials involved in drug-related crimes would demonstrate the government’s commitment to eradicating corruption within its ranks and its efforts to bring back the Filipino people’s trust.
“The present law has demonstrated its futility to deter offenses relating to drugs. Our law’s leniency has brought us to this sorry state of affairs where law enforcers are now unafraid to be involved in illegal drugs. The situation is dire which requires our government to respond with a staunch and decisive measure: the law must be changed,” Padilla said.
The proposed legislation is expected to undergo rigorous scrutiny in the Senate, with lawmakers, legal experts, and human rights advocates engaging in comprehensive deliberations.
The outcome of these discussions will play a crucial role in determining the future direction of the country’s criminal justice system and its approach to combating the illegal drug trade.
The death penalty was reinstated in 1993 under the administration of President Fidel V. Ramos. The move aimed to combat heinous crimes such as murder, rape with homicide, and drug trafficking.
In 2006, under President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s administration, the Philippines took a significant step by enacting Republic Act No. 9346, which abolished the death penalty for all crimes. This move was influenced by the growing recognition of human rights and concerns about the fairness of the justice system.