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DEATH PENALTY FOR GRAFT PROPOSED

January 23, 2025 Jester P. Manalastas 66 views

A measure that seeks to impose death penalty by firing squad for government officials convicted of corruption and other grave cases has been filed in the House of Representatives.

In filing House Bill 11211, Zamboanga City Rep. Khymer Adan Olaso wants to emphasize the accountability and deterrence, making it clear that public office is a public trust and any violation of that trust must be met with the severest consequences.

The bill proposed firing squad on public officials, from the President to the lowest barangay official, convicted by the Sandiganbayan of graft and corruption, malversation of public funds, and plunder.

According to Olaso, corruptin remains one of the gravest threats to the Philippine’s social, economic and political development.

He lamented that despite the existence of numerous laws aimed at combatting graft, malversation and plunder, there are some who keeps on engaging in corrupt practices.

“The misuse of public funds and betrayal of public trust not only undermine the government’s legitimacy but also deprive millions of Filipinos of essential services, infrastructure and opportunities for growth,” he said.

The imposition of the death penalty for these crimes is grounded in the principle of retributive justice, recognizing the magnitude of harm inflicted by corrupt practices.

It also aligns with the constitutional mandate under Article XI of the 1987 Constitution which underscores accountability among public officers.

Furthermore, the bill reinforces the legislative intent behind Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and Repubic Act No. 7080 or the Plunder Law by ensuring that the penalties are commensurate with the crimes committed.

“This bill is not merely punitive but also symbolic of the Philippine’s zero-tolerance policy for corruption. By passing this legislation, Congress sends a strong message that integrity and accountability are paramount in public service and that the misuse of public resources will not be tolerated,” he added.