Mr Duterte said he will ask his country's congress to re-impose the death penalty, which has been suspended since 2006 following opposition from the Roman Catholic church.
The candidate has made controversial comments in the past, earlier in the year he was criticised for 'joking' about an Australian missionary that was raped and murdered in his city.
36-year-old Jacqueline Hamill was killed in 1989.
He said that capital punishment by hanging should be imposed for crimes such as murder, robbery and rape, adding that those convicted of more than one crime would be hanged twice.
Speaking on national television he said: "After the first hanging, there will be another ceremony for the second time until the head is completely severed from the body."
Earlier in the month the politician also appealed for forgiveness after insulting the Pope during his visit to the Philippines.
He plans to visit the Vatican to 'ask for forgiveness' from Pope Francis for insulting him during the election campaign.
His spokesperson said: "The mayor repeatedly said he wants to visit the Vatican, win or lose, not only to pay homage to the Pope but he really needs to explain to the Pope and ask for forgiveness."
