Senator Dela Rosa Advocates Death Penalty for Corrupt Officials but Opts for Prison If Convicted

During the Senate Blue Ribbon hearing on Thursday, 25 September, Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa strongly endorsed the death penalty as a deterrent against corruption among government officials. In a candid exchange, he addressed former Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, asking, "If a law imposing the death penalty for corrupt politicians and government officials were enacted, would you fear involvement in corruption?" Bernardo responded, "I think many would be scared. But I don't believe corruption will be completely eradicated, although definitely reduced."

Later in the hearing, Senator Ping Lacson revisited the topic by posing a hypothetical question to Dela Rosa. "Senator Bato, if given the choice between life imprisonment at Muntinlupa or the death penalty, which would you select? Given the harsh conditions in Muntinlupa, I'd probably opt for the death penalty," Lacson remarked.

With a lighthearted smile, Dela Rosa replied, "I'd choose Muntinlupa. I think I'd enjoy it there."

This exchange highlighted Dela Rosa's commitment to stringent penalties for corruption while hinting at his personal tolerance for imprisonment, emphasizing the seriousness with which the Senate continues to tackle corruption issues within government ranks.