Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers has filed House Bill 1543 which seeks to restore capital punishment for illegal drug-related offenses and other heinous crimes.
“Crimes disturb the order of society. The death penalty is said to be the strongest deterrent society has against such crimes. It aims to restore order and adequately punishes criminals,” Barbers said in his explanatory note on the measure.
“The death penalty also serves as retribution for victims and their families,” Barbers added.
Barbers expressed belief that the death penalty is the strongest punishment available to deter unlawful acts
“If criminals charged guilty of committing heinous crimes are sentenced to death and executed, potential criminals will think twice before committing crimes for fear of losing their own life. In view of the foregoing consideration, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought,” Barbers said.
“We should elevate this [proposal] to national conversation to get the sentiment of the people and those sectors vulnerable to these crimes,” Barbers added.