We urge government officials to be more circumspect in utterances that tend to devalue life and other rights by making them laughing matters. Cruel, inhuman, and degrading punishments are serious human rights offences barred by laws. Such acts have no place in a civilised society.

The Commission on Human Rights reiterates its position that there must be a more thorough study and dialogue on the proposal to reinstate death penalty after its suspension in 2007. Facts prove that it fails to be a deterrent for crimes; thus, alternatives, which equally respect and balance the rights of all, must be pursued instead.

Part of affirming commitment to human rights also includes honouring the Philippines’ ratification of the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which bars reinstating capital punishment executions after it has already been suspended.

We look forward to a more open discussion on the said legislative proposal. CHR is willing to present these studies to lawmakers and the government in general in hopes for a more enlightened appreciation of the issue. ###