Robin Padilla files bill seeking death penalty as heaviest penalty for rape

Senator Robin Padilla has filed a bill seeking to impose death penalty for grave rape cases.

Senate Bill 2777 seeks to amend Republic Act 8353 or the Anti-Rape Law to "be more certain that our laws are stronger, more gender-responsive, and progressive especially in these changing times."

"Despite the penalties under RA 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," Padilla said.

Under the proposed measure, the penalty of reclusion perpetua to death may apply if:

• rape is committed with the use of a deadly weapon or by two or more persons
• the victim becomes insane due to the rape
• rape is attempted and a homicide is committed during the crime
• rape is committed with any of the 10 aggravating or qualifying circumstances enumerated under Article 266-B or RA 8535.

The bill was filed amid the Senate inquiry into the policies of television networks and artist management agencies in relation to complaints of abuse and harassment.

The inquiry, which Padilla leads, was launched following the reported sexual harassment incident involving young actor Sandro Muhlach.

In his bill, Padilla cited a study of the Council for the Welfare of Children and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in 2017 which showed tht more males aged 13 to 24 experience sexual violence more than females. —Hana Bordey/KBK, GMA Integrated News