MANILA — Sen. Robinhood “Robin” C. Padilla has proposed a bill that calls for the death penalty for individuals involved in smuggling, specifically targeting Bureau of Customs personnel, soldiers, policemen, and other uniformed personnel.
This move comes as a response to the detrimental impact of smuggling, particularly agricultural smuggling, on the livelihoods of Filipino farmers.
Padilla’s Senate Bill 2214 seeks to amend Section 4 of Republic Act 10845, also known as the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016, by introducing the death penalty as a punishment for personnel engaged in smuggling.
In his bill, Padilla emphasizes the need to send a strong message that the large-scale smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and cartel activities related to agricultural products, carried out by customs officers and employees, are heinous acts that pose a threat to the very fabric of society. He argues that imposing the death penalty is a necessary response to this grave issue.
Padilla further highlights the severe consequences of widespread smuggling and other illicit activities, which not only push people further into poverty but also lead to significant food insecurity in the country. He criticizes the persistent corruption and unethical behavior within the customs administration that perpetuates these problems.
During a hearing held by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, Padilla expresses his deep concern over the continuous suffering of Filipinos due to this scourge, particularly when law enforcement officials are involved. He stresses the impact on farmers and the livelihoods of the impoverished population, pointing out the irony of being an agricultural country that still relies on imports.
Padilla, who had previously introduced Senate Bill 2042 proposing the death penalty for security personnel involved in murder, intends to file a similar measure specifically targeting Bureau of Customs personnel engaged in smuggling.
Moreover, he asserts that unless this issue is effectively addressed, the country will struggle to overcome its rebellion problem. He urges his fellow countrymen to unite and collaborate in tackling this issue, emphasizing that the torment faced by farmers hinders efforts to achieve peace and resolve the ongoing rebellion. (ai/mtvn)
