By: Mona Lagbas
Cayan de Oro City 1st District - Representative Atty. Lordan Suan has expressed strong opposition to the reimposition of the death penalty for corrupt officials, reiterating his firm belief in the Roman Catholic commandment that forbids taking a life. Speaking on January 25 during the turnover ceremony for a newly constructed gymnasium in Bonbon, Cagayan de Oro, Suan shared his views on how the country should address corruption within the government. Suan acknowledged the grave issue of corruption, which continues to plague the nation, but he argued that capital punishment would not be a just solution. "While corruption is a serious crime that harms our country and its people, I do not believe that the death penalty is the answer. As a Roman Catholic, I hold firm to the commandment that says 'Thou shalt not kill,'" Suan said. He emphasized the importance of upholding human dignity, even for those who commit grave offenses like corruption. Instead of endorsing the death penalty, Suan proposed an alternative approach that focuses on restitution and accountability. He advocated for the strengthening of existing laws to ensure that individuals found guilty of corruption are held fully accountable for their actions, including requiring them to return the stolen funds. Instead of endorsing the death penalty, Suan proposed an alternative approach that focuses on restitution and accountability. He advocated for the strengthening of existing laws to ensure that individuals
found guilty of corruption are held fully accountable for their actions, including requiring them to return the stolen funds. "We must make those who commit such crimes pay back what they have taken from the people. Regardless of the financial consequences they may face, the people deserve justice,"
Suan stated. His call for restitution aims to address not only the act of corruption but also its impact on the public, ensuring that stolen resources are returned to the people they were taken from. The lawmaker also called for a comprehensive reform of the legal system to focus on transparency, accountability, and fairness. He emphasized that public officials who betray the trust of their constituents should face strong legal consequences, but these should be centered on ensuring that the wrongs are righted and that the focus remains on rebuilding trust in public institutions. "We need laws that prioritize justice, transparency, and reform, rather than relying on extreme and irreversible measures," Suan added.
Suan’s position on the matter reflects his broader vision of governance, which aims to balance accountability with compassion. During the gymnasium turnover event, where local officials, community leaders, and residents gathered to celebrate the new facility, Suan’s remarks underscored his commitment to both local development and national governance reform. As he works to provide essential infrastructure and services to his constituents, he also advocates for the kind of legal and political reforms that can lead to a more just and transparent government. His advocacy for strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that corrupt officials are made to answer for their actions is a cornerstone of his leadership, as he seeks to restore public faith in government institutions.
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