IMPACT OF ABOLISHING THE DEATH PENALTY ON CRIME RATES IN THE PHILIPPINES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

This study examines the impact of abolishing the death penalty on crime rates in the Philippines through a comprehensive comparative analysis. The research aims to explore whether the removal of capital punishment influences the incidence and types of crimes, focusing on a range of criminal activities, including violent crimes, drug-related offenses, and property crimes. By utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative data from national crime statistics pre- and post-abolition with qualitative insights from interviews with legal experts, law enforcement officers, and criminologists. Comparative analysis with other Southeast Asian countries that have undergone similar legal reforms provides a broader contextual understanding. The findings of this research aim to inform policymakers and stakeholders about the effectiveness of the death penalty as a deterrent and its broader social implications, contributing to the ongoing debate on criminal justice and human rights in the Philippines.