The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has strongly opposed the proposed House Bill 11211, which aims to impose the death penalty by firing squad on corrupt public officials.
In a recent press statement, the CHR reiterated that the Philippine Constitution prohibits the death penalty, which the country officially abolished in 2006.
Under House Bill 11211, or the Death Penalty for Corruption Act, the Sandiganbayan would sentence government officials convicted of corruption to execution by firing squad.
Zamboanga City First District Representative Khymer Adan Olaso, the bill’s proponent, has proposed that public executions take place at Luneta Park in Manila, a historic site where Spanish colonizers executed Filipino martyr and national hero Dr. Jose Rizal in 1896.
Olaso claimed that the bill is necessary for those who abuse the nation’s resources and has emphasized safeguards to prevent misuse of the law if enacted.
Although Olaso has yet to gain support from his colleagues, he hopes the House will prioritize the bill. If the bill does not pass during the 19th Congress, he plans to file a similar measure in the next Congress.
While the CHR acknowledges the severity of corruption and its far-reaching consequences, such as exacerbating inequality and eroding public institutions, it argues that the death penalty is neither a viable nor an effective solution.
The commission pointed out that the Philippines is a signatory to the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which requires the country to maintain a permanent ban on the death penalty.
Reintroducing the death penalty, the CHR asserts, would violate both national law and the country’s international obligations.
Reforms
The Commission emphasized that effectively addressing corruption requires systemic reforms, consistent law enforcement, and robust transparency and accountability mechanisms, rather than the imposition of the death penalty.
Furthermore, it stressed that “the imposition of cruel punishment does not address the root cause of corruption; instead, it diverts attention from the urgent need for institutional reforms and preventive measures, such as strengthening governance systems and accountability structures.”
In addition, the CHR urged the government to focus on the strict enforcement of existing anti-corruption laws, enhance oversight of public officials’ financial activities, and promote policies that encourage full transparency and disclosure.
The CHR also called for the promotion of grassroots campaigns and digital initiatives that prioritize voter education.
“Grassroots campaigns and digital efforts should empower Filipinos to make informed decisions. Electing leaders of integrity fosters governance that prioritizes public welfare over personal gain,” the CHR concluded.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.