Senator Robin Padilla is pushing to strengthen the Anti-Rape Law of 1997 by allowing the death penalty for extreme cases.
On Monday, Aug. 12, Padilla filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2777 to make Philippine laws stronger and more gender-responsive, recognizing that rape affects individuals of all genders.
“Despite the penalties under Republic Act No. 8353, this representation still finds it compelling to increase the punishment for any person who shall commit an act of rape as stated under Paragraph 2, Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by RA 8353,” the actor-turned-politician said.
“By doing so, we can be more certain that our laws are stronger, more gender-responsive, and progressive especially in these changing times,” he added.
In filing SBN 2777, Padilla cited a 2017 study of the Council for the Welfare of Children and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) that males aged 13 to 24 experience sexual violence more than females.
His proposal provides that the penalty of reclusion perpetua to death may apply if:
*the rape is committed with the use of a deadly weapon or by two or more persons;
*the victim becomes insane due to the rape;
*the rape is attempted and a homicide is committed during the crime; and
*the rape is committed with any of the aggravating or qualifying circumstances in the article.IMT
