Sen. Kiko wants stiffer penalties for major rice smugglers, corrupt officials

Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan is advocating for stricter penalties against major rice smugglers, particularly those in government positions involved in economic sabotage.

Pangilinan proposed severe consequences for government officials who aid or collude with smugglers, including life imprisonment, permanent disqualification from public service, and asset forfeiture.

He expressed a desire to target syndicate leaders and corrupt officials rather than minor players or accomplices in smuggling operations.

The senator highlighted that numerous individuals could face charges for smuggling-related offenses like hiding, transporting, selling, hoarding, and document forgery, yet very few, if any, major smugglers are currently incarcerated.

Pangilinan stated that justice would be better served by prosecuting those at the highest levels of smuggling rings and their government abettors.