Criminal Law Reviewer
Criminal Law Reviewer
Criminal Law Reviewer
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Criminal Law 1 Criminal Law 2
Dean Danilo L. Concepcion Dean, UP College of Law Prof. Concepcion L. Jardeleza Associate Dean, UP College of Law Prof. Ma. Gisella D. Reyes Secretary, UP College of Law Prof. Florin T. Hilbay Faculty Adviser, UP Law Bar Operations Commission 2012 Ramon Carlo F. Marcaida Commissioner Eleanor Balaquiao Mark Xavier Oyales Academics Committee Heads Camille Umali Charmaine Sto. Domingo Criminal Law Subject Heads Graciello Timothy Reyes Layout
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2012
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BAR OPERATIONS COMMISSION 2012 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Ramon Carlo Marcaida |Commissioner Raymond Velasco Mara Kriska Chen |Deputy Commissioners Barbie Kaye Perez |Secretary Carmen Cecilia Veneracion |Treasurer Hazel Angeline Abenoja|Auditor
COMMITTEE HEADS Eleanor Balaquiao Mark Xavier Oyales | Acads Monique Morales Katleya Kate Belderol Kathleen Mae Tuason (D) Rachel Miranda (D) |Special Lectures Patricia Madarang Marinella Felizmenio |Secretariat Victoria Caranay |Publicity and Promotions Loraine Saguinsin Ma. Luz Baldueza |Marketing Benjamin Joseph Geronimo Jose Lacas |Logistics Angelo Bernard Ngo Annalee Toda|HR Anne Janelle Yu Alyssa Carmelli Castillo |Merchandise Graciello Timothy Reyes |Layout Charmaine Sto. Domingo Katrina Maniquis |Mock Bar Krizel Malabanan Karren de Chavez |Bar Candidates Welfare Karina Kirstie Paola Ayco Ma. Ara Garcia |Events OPERATIONS HEADS Charles Icasiano Katrina Rivera |Hotel Operations Marijo Alcala Marian Salanguit |Day-Operations Jauhari Azis |Night-Operations Vivienne Villanueva Charlaine Latorre |Food Kris Francisco Rimban Elvin Salindo |Transpo Paula Plaza |Linkages
CRIMINAL LAW TEAM 2012 Faculty Editor | Prof. Jay Batongbacal Subject Heads | Camille Umali Charmaine Sto. Domingo
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LAYOUT TEAM 2012 Layout Artists | Alyanna Apacible Noel Luciano RM Meneses Jenin Velasquez Mara Villegas Naomi Quimpo Leslie Octaviano Yas Refran Cris Bernardino Layout Head| Graciello Timothy Reyes
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Copyright and all other relevant rights over this material are owned jointly by the University of the Philippines College of Law and the Student Editorial Team. The ownership of the work belongs to the University of the Philippines College of Law. No part of this book shall be reproduced or distributed without the consent of the University of the Philippines College of Law. All Rights reserved.
Criminal Law 1
CHAPTER I. FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF CRIMINAL LAW .......................... 14 A. Definition of Criminal Law ........ 14 1. Difference between Mala in Se and Mala Prohibita .......................... 14 B. Scope of Application and Characteristics of the Philippine Criminal Law 16 0. Generality ........................ 16 1. Territoriality ..................... 17 2. Prospectivity ..................... 19 3. Legality (nullum crimen nulla poena sine lege) ....................... 20 4. Strict Construction of Penal Laws Against State: The Doctrine of Pro Reo ..................................... 20 C. Constitutional limitations on the power of Congress to enact penal laws in the Bill of Rights .......................... 20 1. Equal protection ................. 20 2. Due process ....................... 20 3. Non-imposition of cruel and unusual punishment or excessive fines 20 4. Bill of attainder .................. 20 5. Ex post facto law ................ 20 CHAPTER II. FELONIES ..................... 22 A. Preliminary matters ................ 22 1. Differentiating Felonies, Offense, Misdemeanor and Crime .............. 22 1. Felonies: How Committed ......... 22 2. How is Criminal Liability Incurred? ................................ 22 3. Discussion of Article 5........... 23 4. Wrongful Act Different from that Intended ................................ 23 5. Omission .......................... 25 B. Classifications of Felonies ......... 25 1. According to the Manner of Their Commission ............................. 26 2. According to the Stages of Their Execution ............................... 26 3. According to Their Gravity ..... 26 4. As to Count ....................... 27 5. As to Nature ...................... 27 C. Elements of Criminal Liability .... 27 1. Elements of Felonies ............ 27 Intentional Felonies ................... 27 D. Impossible Crimes .................. 31
E. F. G.
Stages of Execution ................. 32 Conspiracy and Proposal ........... 36 Multiple Offenders .................. 39 1. Recidivism......................... 40 2. Habituality (Reiteracion) ....... 40 3. Quasi-Recidivism ................. 40 4. Habitual Delinquency ............ 40 H. Complex Crimes and Special Complex Crimes ........................... 40 1. Complex Crimes .................. 41 2. Special Complex/Composite crimes ................................... 42 3. Continued and Continuing Crimes (Delito Continuado) ................... 42 CHAPTER III. CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH AFFECT CRIMINAL LIABILITY .............. 44 A. Justifying Circumstances .......... 44 1. Self Defense ...................... 44 2. Defense of Relatives ............. 46 3. Defense of Strangers ............ 46 4. Avoidance of a Greater Evil .... 46 5. Fulfillment of Duty or Lawful Exercise of Right or office ............ 47 6. Obedience to an order issued for some lawful purpose .................. 47 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. C. Exempting Circumstances ......... 48 Insanity and Imbecility .......... 49 Minority............................ 49 Accident ........................... 50 Irresistible Force ................. 50 Uncontrollable Fear ............. 51 Insuperable or Lawful Causes .. 51
B.
Mitigating Circumstances .......... 51 1. Incomplete Justification and Exemption .............................. 52 2. Under 18 Or Over 70 Years Of Age 53 3. No Intention to Commit So Grave A Wrong (Praeter Intentionem) ...... 53 4. Sufficient Provocation or Threat 54 5. Immediate Vindication of A Grave Offense .................................. 54 6. Passion or obfuscation (Arrebato y Obsecacion) .......................... 55 7. Voluntary Surrender ............. 56 8. Plea Of Guilt ...................... 57 9. Plea to a Lesser Offense ........ 57 10. Physical Defects ............... 57 11. Illness ........................... 57
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12. Analogous Mitigating Circumstances.......................... 58 D. 1. 1. Aggravating Circumstances ........ 58 Generic ............................ 59 Taking Advantage of Public Office 59 2. In Contempt of or With Insult to Public Authorities ............... 59 3. With Insult or Lack of Regard Due to Offended Party by Reason of Rank, Age or Sex .................... 60 4. Abuse of Confidence and Obvious Ungratefulness ............ 61 5. Crime in Palace or in Presence of the Chief Executive ............. 62 6. Nighttime (Nocturnidad); Uninhabited Place (Despoblado); With a Band (Cuadrilla)............ 62 7. On Occasion of a Calamity .. 63 8. Aid of Armed Men or Means to Ensure Impunity (Auxilio de Gente Armada) .............................. 63 9. Recidivism (Reincidencia) ... 64 10. Reiteracion/Habituality ... 65 11. Prize, Reward or Promise . 66 12. lInundation, Fire, Poison.. 66 13. Evident Premeditation (Premeditacion Conocida) ......... 66 14. Craft (Astucia), Fraud (Fraude) or Disguise (Disfraz)..... 67 15. Superior Strength or Means to Weaken Defense ................. 68 16. Treachery (Alevosia) ...... 69 17. Ignominy .................... 70 18. Unlawful Entry ............. 71 19. Breaking Wall, Floor, Roof 71 20. With Aid of Persons Under 15; By Motor Vehicle ............... 71 21. Cruelty ...................... 71 Alternative Circumstances ........ 75 Relationship ...................... 75 Intoxication ....................... 76 Degree of Instruction/ Education 76 Absolutory Causes .................. 76 Instigation ........................ 76 2. Pardon ............................. 77 3. Other Absolutory Causes ........ 77 4. Acts Not Covered By Law And In Case Of Excessive Punishment ....... 77 CHAPTER IV.PERSONS CRIMINALLY LIABLE/DEGREE OF PARTICIPATION ..... 78 A. PrincipalsError! Bookmark not defined. 1. By Direct Participation .......... 78 2. By Inducement ................... 79 3. By Indispensable Cooperation .. 79 B. Accomplices ......................... 79 C. Accessories........................... 80 CHAPTER V. PENALTIES .................... 83 A. 1. 2. 3. B. 1. 2. General Principles .................. 83 Purposes ........................... 84 Classification ..................... 84 Duration and Effect .............. 84 Penalties which may be imposed . 84 Scale of Principal Penalties .... 84 Scale of Accessory Penalties ... 85
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E. 1. 2. 3. F. 1.
C. Specific Principal And Accessory Penalties ................................... 86 1. Afflictive penalties .............. 86 1. Reclusion Perpetua .............. 86 2. Reclusion Temporal ........... 87 3. Prision mayor .................. 87 1. Correctional penalties........... 87 1. Prision Correccional ............. 87 2. Arresto Mayor .................. 87 3. Light penalties ................... 89 1. Arresto Menor .................... 89 2. Public Censure................. 89 4. Penalties common to afflictive, correctional, and light penalties .... 89 1. Fine ................................ 89 2. Bond to Keep the Peace ........ 89 D. Accessory penalties ................. 90 1. Perpetual or Temporary Absolute Disqualification ........................ 90 2. Perpetual or Temporary Special Disqualification ............ 91
CRIMINAL LAW REVIEWER 3. Suspension from Public Office, the Right to Vote and Be Voted for, the Right to Practice a Profession or Calling ................................... 91 4. Civil Interdiction .............. 91 5. Indemnification or Confiscation of Instruments or Proceeds of the Offense ............................... 91 6. Payment of Costs ............. 91 Perpetual or Temporary Special Disqualification ........................... 92 E. F. Measures not considered penalty 92 Application .......................... 93 1. Indeterminate Sentence Law (R.A. 4013, as amended) ............. 94 2. The Three-fold rule ............. 96 3. Subsidiary imprisonment........ 97 Special rules for certain situations 104 1. Complex Crimes ................. 104 2. Crimes Different from That Intended ............................... 105 3. Where the Offender Is Below 18 Years ................................... 106 Execution and Service ............ 107 1. Probation Law (P.D. 968, as amended) .............................. 108 3. Article 116 - Misprision of Treason .................................156 4. Article 117 Espionage .........157 B. Crimes against the Law of Nations 157 1. Article 118 - Inciting to War or Giving Motives for Reprisals .........157 2. Article 119 - Violation of Neutrality ..............................157 3. Article 120 - Correspondence with Hostile Country .................157 4. Article 121 - Flight to Enemy's Country .................................157 5. Article 122 - Piracy in General and Mutiny on the High Seas or in Philippine Waters .....................157 6. Article 123 - Qualified Piracy.158
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Title II. Crimes against Fundamental Laws of the State ................................ 158 1. Article 124 - Arbitrary Detention 158 2. Article 125 - Delay in the Delivery of Detained Persons to the Proper Judicial Authorities ...................159 3. Article 126 - Delaying Release 159 4. Article 127 Expulsion .........160 5. Article 128 - Violation of Domicile 160 6. Article 129 - Search Warrants Maliciously Obtained, and Abuse in the Service of Those Legally Obtained .160 7. Article 130 - Searching Domicile without Witnesses ....................161 8. Article 131 Prohibition, Interruption and Dissolution of Peaceful Meetings ....................161 9. Article 132 - Interruption of Religious Worship .....................161 10. Article 133 - Offending the Religious Feelings .....................162 Title III. Crimes against Public Order . 162 A. Chapter I Rebellion, Coup detat, Sedition and Disloyalty ..................162 1. Article 134 Rebellion /Insurrection ..........................162 2. Article 134-A - Coup d tat ...163 3. Article 135 - Penalty for Rebellion, Insurrection or Coup d tat 163
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CHAPTER VI. MODIFICATION AND EXTINCTION OF CRIMINAL LIABILITY .. 113 A. Prescription of crimes (Art. 90) . 113 B. Prescription of penalties (Art. 92) 114 C. Pardon by the offended party ... 115 D. Pardon by the Chief Executive... 115 E. Amnesty ............................. 115
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Title I. Crimes against National Security and the Law of Nations .................. 155 A. Crimes against Security ........... 155 1. Article 114 Treason ........... 155 2. Article 115 - Conspiracy and Proposal to Commit Treason ........ 156
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4. Article 136 - Conspiracy and Proposal to Commit Coup d tat, Rebellion or Insurrection ............ 164 5. Article 137 - Disloyalty of Public Officers or Employees................ 164 6. Article 138 - Inciting to Rebellion or Insurrection ........................ 164 7. Article 139 - Sedition........... 164 8. Article 140 - Persons Liable for Sedition ................................ 165 9. Article 141 - Conspiracy to Commit Sedition ...................... 165 10. Article 142 Inciting to Sedition ................................ 165 B. Chapter II - Crimes against Popular Representation ........................... 166 1. Article 143 - Acts Tending to Prevent the Meeting of the Congress of the Philippines and Similar Bodies 166 2. Article 144 - Disturbance of Proceedings............................ 166 3. Article 145 - Violation of Parliamentary Immunity ............. 166 C. Chapter III Illegal Assemblies and Associations .............................. 166 1. Article 146 - Illegal Assemblies 166 2. Article 147 - Illegal Associations 167 D. Chapter IV - Assault upon and Resistance and Disobedience to, Persons in Authority and Their Agents ......... 167 1. Article 148 - Direct Assault .... 167 2. Article 152 - Persons in Authority and Agents of Persons in Authority 168 3. Article 149 - Indirect Assault .. 168 4. Article 150 - Disobedience to Summons Issued by Congress, Its Committees or Subcommittees, by the Constitutional Commissions, Its Committees, Subcommittees or Divisions ................................ 168 5. Article 151 - Resistance and Disobedience to a Person in Authority or the Agents of Such Persons ...... 168 E. Chapter V - Public Disorders .....169 1. Article 153 - Tumults and Other Disturbances of Public Order ........169 2. Article 154 - Unlawful Use of Means of Publication and Unlawful Utterances .............................169 3. Article 155 - Alarms and Scandals 169 4. Article 156 - Delivering Persons from Jail ...............................170
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F. Chapter VI - Evasion of Service of Sentence ..................................170 1. Article 157 - Evasion of Service of Sentence ...............................170 2. Article 158 - Evasion of Service of Sentence on the Occasion of Disorders, Conflagrations, Earthquakes, or Other Calamities ..171 3. Article 159 - Other Cases of Evasion of Service of Sentence .....171 G. Chapter VII - Commission of Another Crime during Service of Penalty Imposed for Another Previous Offense ..........171 1. Article 160 - Quasi Recidivism 171 H. Title IV. Crimes against Public Interest ....................................171 1. Acts of Counterfeitin ...........172 1. Article 161 - Counterfeiting the Great Seal of the Government of the Philippine Islands, Forging the Signature or Stamp of the Chief Executive...............................172 2. Article 162 - Using Forged Signature or Counterfeit Seal or Stamp ................................172 3. Article 163 - Making and Importing and Uttering False Coins 172 4. Article 164 - Mutilation of Coins .................................173 5. Article 165 - Selling of False or Mutilated Coin, Without Connivance 173
CRIMINAL LAW REVIEWER 6. Article 166 - Forging Treasury or Bank Notes or Other Documents Payable to Bearer; Importing and Uttering Such False or Forged Notes and Documents ..................... 173 7. Article 167 - Counterfeiting, Importing, and Uttering Instruments Not Payable to Bearer ............ 174 2. Acts of Forgery .................. 174 1. Article 168 - Illegal Possession and Use of False Treasury or Bank Notes and Other Instruments of Credit 174 2. Article 169 - How Forgery is Committed............................. 174 3. Acts of Falsification ............ 174 1. Article 170 - Falsification of Legislative Documents ............... 174 2. Article 171 - Falsification by Public Officer, Employee or Notary or Ecclesiastical Minister ......... 175 3. Article 172 - Falsification by Private Individual and Use of Falsified Documents ............... 177 4. Article 173 - Falsification of Wireless, Cable, Telegraph and Telephone Messages, and Use of Said Falsified Messages ........... 178 5. Article 174 - False Medical Certificates, False Certificates of Merits or Service, etc. ............ 178 6. Article 175 - Using False Certificates ......................... 178 7. Article 176 - Manufacturing and Possession of Instruments or Implements for Falsification ..... 179 4. OTHER FALSITIES ................ 179 1. Article 177 - Usurpation of Authority or Official Functions ..... 179 2. Article 178 - Using Fictitious and Concealing True Name ....... 179 3. Article 179 - Illegal Use of Uniforms and Insignia ............. 179 4. Article 180 - False Testimony Against a Defendant ............... 180 5. Article 181 - False Testimony Favorable to the Defendant ...... 180 6. Article 182 - False Testimony in Civil Cases ....................... 180 7. Article 183 - False Testimony in Other Cases and Perjury in Solemn Affirmation ................180 8. Article 184 - Offering False Testimony in Evidence ............181 9. Article 185 - Machinations in Public Auctions .....................181 10. Article 186 Monopolies and Combinations in Restraint of Trade 181 11. Article 187 Importation and Disposition of Falsely Marked Articles or Merchandise Made of Gold, Silver, or other Precious Metals or their Alloys ..............182 Title V. Crimes Relative to Opium and Other Prohibited Drugs .................. 182 A. Acts Punished: ......................182 B. Penalties for Unlawful Acts: .....182 C. Definition of Important Terms ...183 D. Other Important Points ...........183 Title VI. Crimes against Public Morals 184 CHAPTER I: Gambling and Betting .....184 A. Chapter I - Gambling and Betting 184 1. Article 195 - What Acts Are Punishable in Gambling ..............184 2. Article 196 - Importation, Sale and Possession of Lottery Tickets or Advertisements........................185 3. Article 197 Betting in Sports contents ................................185 4. Article 198 - Illegal Betting on Horse Race .............................185 5. Article 199 (as amended by PD 449) 186
B. Chapter II. Offenses against Decency and Good Customs ............186 0. ........................................186 1. Article 200 - Grave Scandal ...186 2. Article 201 - Immoral Doctrines, Obscene Publications and Exhibitions and Indecent Shows ..................186 3. Article 202 - Vagrancy and Prostitution ............................187 Title VII. Crimes Committed by Public Officers ..................................... 188
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A. Chapter I: Preliminary Provisions 189 B. Chapter II: Malfeasance and Misfeasance in Office ................... 189 1. Article 204 - Knowingly Rendering Unjust Judgment ..................... 189 2. Article 205 - Judgment Rendered Through Negligence .................. 189 3. Article 206 - Unjust Interlocutory Order ................................... 190 4. Article 207 - Malicious Delay in the Administration of Justice ....... 190 5. Article 208 - Prosecution of Offenses; Negligence and Tolerance 190 6. Article 209 Betrayal of Trust by an Attorney or a Solicitor Revelation of Secrets .............................. 190 7. Article 210 - Direct Bribery.... 191 8. Article 211 - Indirect Bribery . 191 9. Article 211-A - Qualified Bribery 192 10. Article 212 - Corruption of Public Officials ........................ 192 C. Chapter III: Frauds and Illegal Exactions and Transactions ............ 192 1. Article 213 - Fraud against the Public Treasury and Similar Offenses 192 2. Article 214 - Other Frauds ..... 193 3. Article 215 Prohibited Transactions ........................... 193 4. Article 216 - Possession of Prohibited Interest by a Public Officer 194 D. Chapter IV: Malversation of Public Funds or Property ....................... 194 1. Article 217 - Malversation of Public Funds or Property Presumption of Malversation ........ 194 2. Article 218 Failure of Accountable Officer to Render Accounts ............................... 195 3. Article 219 - Failure of a Responsible Public Officer to Render Accounts Before Leaving the Country 195 4. Article 220 - Illegal Use of Public Funds or Property .....................195 5. Article 221 - Failure to Make Delivery of Public Funds or Property 196 6. Article 222 - Officers Included in the Preceding Provisions .............196 E. Chapter V: Infidelity of Public Officers ....................................196 1. Article 223 - Conniving With or Consenting to Evasion ................196 2. Article 224 - Evasion through Negligence .............................196 3. Article 225 - Escape of Prisoner under the Custody of a Person Not a Public Officer..........................196 4. Article 226 Removal, Concealment, or Destruction of Documents .............................197 5. Article 227 - Officer Breaking Seal 197 6. Article 228 - Opening of Closed Documents .............................197 7. Article 229 - Revelation of Secrets by an Officer .................197 8. Article 230 - Public Officers Revealing Secrets of Private Individuals .............................198 F. Chapter VI: Other Offenses or Irregularities by Public Officers .......198 1. Article 231 - Open Disobedience 198 2. Article 232 - Disobedience to the Order of Superior Officer When Said Order Was Suspended by Inferior Officer ..................................198 3. Article 233 - Refusal of Assistance 198 4. Article 234 - Refusal to Discharge Elective Office ........................198 5. Article 235 - Maltreatment of Prisoners ...............................199 6. Article 236 - Anticipation of Duties of a Public Officer ............199 7. Article 237 Prolonging Performance of Duties and Powers .199
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CRIMINAL LAW REVIEWER 8. Article 238 - Abandonment of Office or Position ..................... 199 9. Article 239 - Usurpation of Legislative Powers .................... 199 10. Article 240 - Usurpation of Executive Functions .................. 200 11. Article 241 - Usurpation of Judicial Functions .................... 200 12. Article 242 - Disobeying Request for Disqualification ........ 200 13. Article 243 - Orders or Request by Executive Officer to Any Judicial Authority ............................... 200 14. Article 244 Unlawful Appointments ......................... 200 15. Article 245 - Abuses against Chastity ................................ 200 Title VIII. Crimes against Persons ...... 201 A. Chapter I: Destruction of Life.... 201 1. Article 246 - Parricide ......... 201 2. Article 247 - Death or Physical Injuries Under Exceptional Circumstances......................... 202 3. Article 248 - Murder ............ 202 4. Article 249 - Homicide ......... 203 5. Article 250 - Penalty for Frustrated Parricide, Murder or Homicide ............................... 204 6. Article 251 - Death Caused in Tumultuous Affray .................... 204 7. Article 252 - Physical Injuries Caused in Tumultuous Affray ....... 204 8. Article 253 - Giving Assistance to Suicide ................................. 204 9. Article 254 - Discharge of Firearms ............................... 204 10. Article 255 - Infanticide .... 205 11. Article 256 - Intentional Abortion ................................ 205 12. Article 257 - Unintentional Abortion ................................ 205 13. Article 258 Abortion Practiced by the Woman Herself or by Parents ................................. 206 14. Article 259 - Abortion by a Physician or Midwife and Dispensing of Abortives ............................... 206 15. Article 260 - Responsibility of Participants in a Duel ................ 206 16. Article 261 - Challenging to a Duel 206 B. Chapter II: Physical Injuries ......207 1. Article 262 - Mutilation ........207 2. Article 263 - Serious Physical Injuries .................................207 3. Article 264 - Administering Injurious Substances or Beverages .207 4. Article 265 - Less Serious Physical Injuries .................................208 5. Article 266 - Slight Physical Injuries and Maltreatment ...........208 6. Article 266-A - Rape (amended by RA 8353)................................208
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Title IX. Crimes against Personal Liberty and Security ............................... 212 A. Chapter I: Crimes against Liberty 212 1. Article 267 - Kidnapping and Serious Illegal Detention .............212 2. Article 268 - Slight Illegal Detention ..............................214 3. Article 269 - Unlawful Arrest ..214 4. Article 270 - Kidnapping and Failure to Return a Minor ............214 5. Article 271 - Inducing a Minor to Abandon His Home ....................215 6. Article 272 - Slavery ............215 7. Article 273 - Exploitation of Child Labor ...................................215 8. Article 274 - Services Rendered Under Compulsion in Payment of Debt 215 Chapter II: Crimes against Security 216 1. Article 275 - Abandonment of Persons in Danger and Abandonment of Own Victim .........................216 2. Article 276 - Abandoning a Minor 216 3. Article 277 - Abandonment of Minor by Person Entrusted With Custody; Indifference of Parents ...216 4. Article 278 - Exploitation of Minors ..................................216 5. Article 280 - Qualified Trespass to Dwelling ................................217 6. Article 281 - Other Forms of Trespass ................................218 7. Article 282 - Grave Threats....218 8. Article 283 - Light Threats .....218 9. Article 284 - Bond for Good Behavior ................................219
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10. Article 285 Other Light Threats ................................. 219 11. Article 286 - Grave Coercions 219 12. Article 287 - Light Coercions 219 13. Article 288 - Other Similar Coercions .............................. 220 14. Article 289 - Formation, Maintenance, and Prohibition of Combination of Capital or Labor through Violence or Threats ........ 220 C. Chapter III: Discovery and Revelation of Secrets ................... 220 1. Article 290 - Discovering Secrets through Seizure of Correspondence 220 2. Article 291 - Revealing Secrets with Abuse of Office ................. 221 3. Article 292 - Revelation of Industrial Secrets ..................... 221 Title X. Crimes against Property ....... 222 A. Chapter I: Robbery in General ... 222 1. Article 293 - Who Are Guilty of Robbery ................................ 222 2. Article 294 - With Violence or Intimidation of Persons .............. 223 3. Article 295 - Robbery with Physical Injuries, in an Uninhabited Place and by a Band .................. 223 4. Article 296 - Definition of a Band and Penalty Incurred by the Members Thereof................................. 224 5. Article 297 - Attempted and Frustrated Robbery with Homicide 224 6. Article 298 - Execution of Deeds through Violence or Intimidation ... 224 7. Article 299 - Robbery in an Inhabited House or Public Building or Edifice Devoted to Worship ......... 224 8. Article 300 Robbery in an Uninhabited Place and by a Band .. 226 9. Article 302 - In an Uninhabited Place or Private Building ............ 226 10. Article 303 - Robbery of Cereals, Fruits or Firewood in an Inhabited Place or Private Building 226 11. Article 304 - Possession of Picklock or Similar Tools .............226 12. Article 305 - Defines False Keys 226 B. Chapter 2: Brigandage (Articles 306307) 226 1. Article 306 - Who Are Brigands226 2. Article 307 - Aiding and Abetting a Band of Brigands ....................227 C. Chapter 3: Theft ...................227 1. Article 308 - Who Are Liable for Theft ....................................227 2. Article 309 - Penalties..........228 3. Article 310 - Qualified Theft ..228 4. Article 311 - Theft of the Property of the National Library and National Museum ......................230 Chapter 4: Usurpation .............230 1. Article 312 - Occupation of Real Property or Usurpation of Real Rights in Property .............................230 2. Article 313 - Altering Boundaries or Landmarks ..........................230 Chapter 5: Culpable Insolvency ..230 1. Article 314 Fraudulent Insolvency ..............................230
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F. Chapter 6: Swindling and Other Deceits ....................................230 1. Article 315 - Estafa .............230 a. With Unfaithfulness or Abuse of Confidence (315 par. 1(a) (b) (c)) ..231 b. Estafa by Means of False Pretenses or Fraudulent Acts (315 par. 2(a) (b) (c) (d) (e); BP22): .....................233 c. Through Other Fraudulent Means (315 Par 3 (a) (b) (c)) ................235 2. Article 316 - Other Forms of Swindling and Deceits ................236 3. Article 317 - Swindling of a Minor 237 4. Article 318 - Other Deceits ....237 G. Chapter 7: Chattel Mortgage .....237
CRIMINAL LAW REVIEWER 1. Article 319 - Removal, Sale, or Pledge of Mortgaged Property ...... 237 H. Chapter 8: Arson and Other Crimes Involving Destruction.................... 238 I. Chapter 9: Malicious Mischief .... 239 1. Article 327 - Who Are Responsible 239 2. Article 328 - Special Cases of Malicious Mischief .................... 239 3. Article 329 - Other Mischiefs .. 239 4. Article 330 - Damage and Obstruction to Means of Communication ....................... 239 5. Article 331 Destroying or Damaging Statues, Public Monuments or Paintings ............................ 239 14. Article 346 Liability of ascendants, guardians, teachers and other persons entrusted with the custody of the offended party ......249 Title XII. Crimes against the Civil Status of Persons .................................. 250 1. Article 349 - Bigamy ............251 2. Article 350 - Marriage Contracted against Provisions of Laws ...........251 3. Article 351 - Premature Marriage 251 4. Article 352 - Performance of Illegal Marriage Ceremony ...........251 Title XIII. Crimes against Honor ........ 253 A. Chapter I: Libel ....................253 Article 353 - Definition of Libel 253 2. Article 354 - Requirement for Publicity ................................254 3. Article 355 - Libel by Writing or Similar Means ..........................254 4. Article 356 - Threatening to Publish and Offer to Prevent Such Publication for a Compensation ....254 5. Article 357 Prohibited Publication of Acts Referred to in the Course of Official Proceedings (Gag Law) 255 6. Article 358 - Slander............255 7. Article 359 - Slander by Deed .255 8. Article 360 - Persons Responsible for Libel ................................255 9. Article 361 - Proof of Truth ...256 10. Article 362 - Libelous Remarks 256 1. J. Chapter 10: Exemption from Criminal Liability ........................ 239 1. Article 332 - Exemption from Criminal Liability in Crimes Against Property................................ 239 Title XI. Crimes against Chastity ....... 242 1. Article 333 - Adultery .......... 242 2. Article 334 - Concubinage ..... 242 3. Article 335 Rape .............. 243 4. Article 336 Acts of Lasciviousness ......................... 243 5. Article 337 - Qualified Seduction 244 6. Article 338 - Simple Seduction 245 7. Article 339 Acts of Lasciviousness with the Consent of the Offended Party........................ 245 8. Article 340 - Corruption of Minors 246 9. Article 341 - White Slave Trade 246 10. Article 342 Forcible Abduction .............................. 246 11. Article 343 Consented Abduction .............................. 247 12. Article 344 - Prosecution of Private Offenses ...................... 248 13. Article 345: Civil Liability .. 249
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B. Chapter II: Incriminatory Machinations..............................256 1. Article 363 - Incriminating innocent person .......................256 2. Article 364 - Intriguing against Honor ...................................256 Title XIV. Quasi-Offenses ................ 259 1. Article 365 - Imprudence and Negligence .............................259
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2012
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CRIMINAL LAW TEAM 2012 Faculty Editor | Prof. Jay Batongbacal Subject Heads | Camille Umali Charmaine Sto. Domingo LAYOUT TEAM 2012 Layout Artists | Alyanna Apacible Noel Luciano RM Meneses Jenin Velasquez Mara Villegas Naomi Quimpo Leslie Octaviano Yas Refran Cris Bernardino Layout Head| Graciello Timothy Reyes
Criminal Law 1
BAR OPERATIONS COMMISSION 2012 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Ramon Carlo Marcaida |Commissioner Raymond Velasco Mara Kriska Chen |Deputy Commissioners Barbie Kaye Perez |Secretary Carmen Cecilia Veneracion |Treasurer Hazel Angeline Abenoja|Auditor COMMITTEE HEADS Eleanor Balaquiao Mark Xavier Oyales | Acads Monique Morales Katleya Kate Belderol Kathleen Mae Tuason (D) Rachel Miranda (D) |Special Lectures Patricia Madarang Marinella Felizmenio |Secretariat Victoria Caranay |Publicity and Promotions Loraine Saguinsin Ma. Luz Baldueza |Marketing Benjamin Joseph Geronimo Jose Lacas |Logistics Angelo Bernard Ngo Annalee Toda|HR Anne Janelle Yu Alyssa Carmelli Castillo |Merchandise Graciello Timothy Reyes |Layout Charmaine Sto. Domingo Katrina Maniquis |Mock Bar Krizel Malabanan Karren de Chavez |Bar Candidates Welfare Karina Kirstie Paola Ayco Ma. Ara Garcia |Events OPERATIONS HEADS Charles Icasiano Katrina Rivera |Hotel Operations Marijo Alcala Marian Salanguit |Day-Operations Jauhari Azis |Night-Operations Vivienne Villanueva Charlaine Latorre |Food Kris Francisco Rimban Elvin Salindo |Transpo Paula Plaza |Linkages
Criminal Law 1
Criminal Law 1 Criminal Law 2
of crime
CRIMINAL LAW Fundamental Principles of Criminal Law Felonies Circumstances which affect criminal liability Persons criminally liable/Degree of participation Penalties Modification and extinction of criminal
REVISED PENAL CODE/SPECIAL LAWS, PRESIDENTIAL DECREES, AND EXECUTIVE ORDERS A. Book 1 (Articles 1-99, RPC, excluding provisions on civil liability), including related Special Laws
They are taken into account in imposing penalty When there is more than one offender, the degree of participation of each in the commission is taken into account. Penalty is computed on the basis of whether he is a principal offender or merely an accomplice or accessory Generally, the RPC.
As to stage of accomplishment
1. Difference between Mala in Se and Mala Prohibita (ASKED TWICE IN BAR EXAMS)
As to nature As to use of good faith as defense Mala in Se Wrong from its very nature. GF a valid defense, unless the crime is the result of culpa Criminal intent is an element. Mala Prohibita Wrong because it is prohibited by law GF is not a defense.
Note: Dolo is not required in crimes mala prohibita. In those crimes which are mala prohibita, the act alone irrespective of its motives, constitutes the offense. Good faith and absence of criminal intent are not valid defenses in crimes mala prohibita. Estrada v. Sandiganbayan (2001): Estrada is challenging the plunder law. One of the issues he raised is whether plunder is a malum prohibitum or malum in se. Held: Plunder is a malum in se which requires proof of criminal intent. Precisely because the crimes constituting plunder are mala in se the element of mens rea must be proven in a prosecution for plunder. i. While intentional felonies are always mala in se, it does not follow that prohibited acts done in violation of special laws are always mala prohibita. ii. Even if the crime is punished under a special law, if the act punished is one which is inherently wrong, the same is malum in se, and, therefore,
As to degree of accomplishment
Degree of accomplish
0. The
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Exception To The Exception: 1. When the accused is a habitual delinquent. (Art. 22) 2. Where the new law expressly made inapplicable to pending actions or existing causes of actions. (Tavera v. Valdez) Statutory; it is passed by the Legislature. May be promulgated by the Legislature (e.g. jurisdiction of courts) or the Judiciary (e.g. Rules of Court)
STATE AUTHORITY TO PUNISH CRIME (ASKED ONCE IN BAR EXAMS) Art. II, Sec. 5 (1987 Constitution) Declaration of Principles and State Policies. The maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty and property, and promotion of the general welfare are essential for the enjoyment by all the people of the blessings of democracy. SOURCES OF CRIMINAL LAW a. The Revised Penal Code (Act No. 3815) Created pursuant to Administrative Order No. 94; enacted January 1, 1932; based on the Spanish Penal Code, US Penal Code, and Phil. Supreme Court decisions. Special penal laws and penal Presidential Decrees issued during Martial Law.
b.
Exceptions: (1) Where the special law provides otherwise (Art.10) (2) When the provisions of the Code are impossible of application, either by express provision or by necessary implication, as in those instances where the provisions in question are peculiar to the Code. (Regalado, Criminal Law Prospectus) Ladonga v People (2005): Spouses Ladonga were convicted by the RTC for
1. Generality
General Rule: Art. 14, NCC. The penal law of the country is binding on all persons who live or sojourn in Philippine territory, subject to the principles of public international law and to treaty stipulations. Limitations: Art. 2, RPC. Except as provided in the treaties or laws of preferential application xxx
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a. Treaty Stipulations
Examples: Bases Agreement entered into by the Philippines and the US on Mar. 14, 1947 and expired on Sept. 16, 1991. Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA)2 signed on Feb. 10, 1998. Article V Criminal Jurisdiction 1. Subject to the provisions of this article: (a) Philippine authorities shall have jurisdiction over United States personnel with respect to offenses committed within the Philippines and punishable under the law of the Philippines. (b) United States military authorities shall have the right to exercise within the Philippines all criminal and disciplinary jurisdiction conferred on them by the military law of the United States over United States personnel in the Philippines. 2. (a) Philippine authorities exercise exclusive jurisdiction over United States personnel with respect to offenses, including offenses relating to the security of the Philippines, punishable under the laws of the Philippines, but not under the laws of the United States. (b) United States authorities exercise exclusive jurisdiction over United States personnel with respect to offenses, including offenses relating to the security of the United States, punishable under the laws of the United States, but not under the laws of the Philippines. (c) For the purposes of this paragraph and paragraph 3 of this article, an offense relating to security means: (1) treason; (2) sabotage, espionage or violation of any law relating to national defense. 3. In cases where the right to exercise jurisdiction is concurrent, the following rules shall apply:
Take note of Art. V, which defines criminal jurisdiction over United States military and civilian personnel temporarily in the Philippines in connection with activities approved by the Philippine Government.
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2. Territoriality
GENERAL RULE: Penal laws of the country have force and effect only within its territory. It cannot penalize crimes committed outside its territory. The territory of the country is not limited to the land where its sovereignty resides but includes also its maritime and interior waters as well as its atmosphere. (Art. 2, RPC)
R.A. No. 75 penalizes acts which would impair the proper observance by the Republic and inhabitants of the Philippines of the immunities, rights, and privileges of duly accredited foreign diplomatic representatives in the Philippines
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(c) Par. 3: Should introduce into the country the above-mentioned obligations and securities. i. The reason for this provision is that the introduction of forged or counterfeited obligations and securities into the Philippines is as dangerous as the forging or counterfeiting of the same, to the economical interest of the country.
ii.
The Philippines adheres to the ENGLISH RULE. However, these rules are NOT applicable if the vessel is on the high seas when the crime was committed. In these cases, the laws of the nationality of the ship will always apply. When the crime is committed in a war vessel of a foreign country, the nationality of the vessel will always determine jurisdiction because war vessels are part of the sovereignty of the country to whose naval force they belong. International Theories on Aerial Jurisdiction
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(d) Par. 4: When public officers or employees commit an offense in the exercise of their functions. Crime committed pertains to the exercise of the public officials functions: The crimes i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. viii. which may be committed are: Direct bribery (A.210) Qualified Bribery (A. 211-A) Indirect bribery (A.211) Corruption (A.212) Frauds against the public treasury (A.213) Possession of prohibited interest (A.216) Malversation of public funds or property (A. 217) Failure to render accounts (A.218)
R.A. 9327 (The Human Security Act) contains provisions for extraterritorial application. 5 The country of registry determines the nationality of the vessel, NOT ITS OWNERSHIP. A Filipino-owned vessel registered in China must fly the Chinese flag.
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The functions contemplated are those, which are, under the law: i. to be performed by the public officer; ii. in the foreign service of the Phil. government; iii. in a foreign country. (e) Par. 5: Commit any of the crimes against national security and the law of nations, (Title One, Book 2, RPC) Crimes against national security: i. Treason (A.114) ii. Conspiracy and proposal to commit treason (A.115) iii. Misprision of treason (A.116) iv. Espionage (A.117) Crimes against the law of nations: i. Inciting to war or giving motives for reprisals (A.118) ii. Violation of neutrality (A.119) iii. Correspondence with hostile country (A.120) iv. Flight to enemys country (A.121) v. Piracy in general and mutiny on the high seas or in Philippine waters (A.122) Note: Crimes against public order (e.g., rebellion, coup detat, sedition) committed abroad is under the jurisdiction of the host country. Terrorism is now classified as a crime against national security and the law of nations. (See R.A. 9372, otherwise known as Human Security Act of 2007).
3. Prospectivity
GENERAL RULE: Acts or omissions will only be subject to a penal law if they are committed AFTER a penal law has taken effect. Conversely, acts or omissions which have been committed before the effectivity of a penal law could not be penalized by such penal law. EXCEPTION: Art. 22 RPC. Penal laws shall have a retroactive effect, insofar as they favor the person guilty of a felony who is not a habitual criminal, as this term is defined in Rule 5 of Article 62 of this Code, although at the time of the publication of such laws a final sentence has been pronounced and the convict is serving the same.
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1. Equal protection
Article III, Section 1, 1987 Const. No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.
4. Legality
crimen
nulla
2. Due process
Art. III, Sec. 14 (1), 1987 Const. No person shall be held to answer for a criminal offense without due process of law. Must be general in application.
Art. 21. No felony shall be punishable by any penalty not prescribed by law prior to its commission. There is no crime when there is no law punishing the same. Limitation: Not every law punishing an act or omission may be valid as a criminal law. If the law punishing an act is ambiguous, it is null and void.
3. Non-imposition
Art III, Sec. 19, 1987 Const. Excessive fines shall not be imposed, nor cruel, degrading or inhuman punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it. Any death penalty already imposed shall be reduced to reclusion perpetua.
Pro reo doctrine: Whenever a penal law is to be construed or applied and the law admits of two interpretations - one lenient to the offender and one strict to the offender, that interpretation which is lenient or favorable to the offender will be adopted. Basis: The fundamental rule that all doubts shall be construed in favor of the accused and presumption of innocence of the accused. Art. III, Sec. 14(2), 1987 Const. In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall be presumed innocent until the contrary is proved. Note: This is peculiar only to criminal law. EQUIPOISE RULE: When the evidence of the prosecution and the defense are equally balanced, the scale should be tilted in favor of the accused in obedience to the constitutional presumption of innocence.8
a. Act Prohibiting the Imposition of Death Penalty in the Philippines (R.A. 9346)
Republic Act 9346 An Act Prohibiting the Imposition of the Death Penalty. Repealed the law imposing lethal injection (R.A. 8177) and the law imposing the death penalty (R.A. 7659) (Sec. 1). This Act also imposes the punishment of reclusion perpetua for offenses under any act using the nomenclature of the RPC (Sec. 2 (a)) and the punishment of life imprisonment for offenses under any act which does not use the nomenclature of the RPC (Sec. 2(b))
4. Bill of attainder
Art III, Sec. 22, 1987 Const. No ex post facto law or bill of attainder shall be enacted. Bill of attainder - a legislative act that inflicts punishment without trial, its essence being the substitution of legislative fiat for a judicial determination of guilt.
C. Constitutional limitations on the power of Congress to enact penal laws in the Bill of Rights (i) Equal protection
(ii) Due process (iii)Non-imposition of cruel and unusual punishment or excessive fines (iv) Bill of attainder (v) Ex post facto law
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Intentional Felony v. Culpable Felony Intentional Act is malicious. With deliberate intent. Culpable Not malicious. Injury caused is unintentional, being just an incident of another act performed without malice. Wrongful act results from imprudence, negligence, lack of foresight, or lack of skill.
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3. Discussion of Article 5
Art. 5 RPC. Duty of the court in connection with acts which should be repressed but which are not covered by the law, and in cases of excessive penalties. 1) Whenever a court has knowledge of any act which it may deem proper to repress and which is not punishable by law, 2) it shall render the proper decision, and shall report to the Chief Executive, through the Department of Justice, the reasons which induce the court to believe that said act should be made the subject of legislation. 3) In the same way, the court shall submit to the Chief Executive, through the Department of Justice, such statement as may be deemed proper, without suspending the execution of the sentence, 4) when a strict enforcement of the provisions of this Code would result in the imposition of a clearly excessive penalty, taking into consideration the degree of malice and the injury caused by the offense. Art. 5 covers two situations: a. Where the court cannot convict the accused because the act he committed is not punishable under the law, but the court deems it proper to repress such act. The proper judgment is acquittal. The judge must report to the Chief Executive that said act be made subject of penal legislation and the reasons therefore. b. Where the court after trial finds the accused guilty, and the penalty prescribed for the crime appears too harsh considering the conditions surrounding the commission of the crime, The judge should impose the law (not suspend the execution of the sentence). The most that he could do is recommend to the Chief Executive to grant executive clemency.
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Urbano v. IAC (1988): A and B had a quarrel and A started to hack B with a bolo. B was wounded at the back. Upon intervention, the two settled their differences. A agreed to shoulder all the expenses for the treatment of the wound of B, and to pay him also whatever loss of income B may have suffered. B, on the other hand, signed a statement of his forgiveness towards A and on that condition, he withdrew the complaint that he filed against A.
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5. Omission
It is inaction, the failure to perform a positive duty which a person is bound to do. There must be a law requiring the doing or performing of an act. Punishable omissions in the RPC: (1) Art. 116: Misprision of treason. (2) Art. 137: Disloyalty of public officers or employees. (3) Art. 208: Negligence and tolerance in prosecution of offenses. (4) Art. 223: Conniving with or consenting to evasion. (5) Art. 275: Abandonment of person in danger and abandonment of ones own victim. (6) Art. 276: Abandoning a minor.
B. Classifications of Felonies
FELONIES ARE CLASSIFIED AS FOLLOWS: 1. According to the manner of their commission 2. According to the stages of their execution (ASKED 9 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) 3. According to their gravity OTHER CLASSIFICATIONS: 4. As to count 5. As to nature This question was asked in the bar examination: How do you classify felonies and how are felonies defined? TIP: What the examiner had in mind was Articles 3, 6 and 9. Do not write the classification of felonies under Book 2 of the Revised Penal Code. The question does not require the candidate to classify but also to define. The purpose of classifying penalties is to bring about a proportionate penalty and equitable punishment. The penalties are graduated according to their degree of severity. The stages (Art. 6) may not apply to all kinds of felonies. There are felonies which do not admit of division.
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b. That the act or omission must be punishable by the RPC; c. That the act is performed or the omission incurred by means of dolo or culpa.
Dolo is DELIBERATE INTENT otherwise referred to as criminal intent, and must be coupled with freedom of action and intelligence on the part of the offender as to the act done by him. Liability even in the absence of criminal intent There are two exceptions to the requirement of criminal intent: (a) Felonies committed by CULPA. (infra) (b) Offenses MALA PROHIBITA. (infra)
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4. As to Count
Plurality of crimes may be in the form of: a. Compound Crime, b. Complex crime; and c. Composite crime.
5. As to Nature
(ASKED 4 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) a. b. Mala in se Mala prohibita
Art. 10. Offenses not subject to the provisions of this Code. - Offenses which are or in the future may be punishable under special laws are not subject to the provisions of this Code. This Code shall be supplementary to such laws, unless the latter should specially provide the contrary. NOTE: Please refer to p. [1] for the table comparing mala in se and mala prohibita
Intentional Felonies
The act or omission is performed or incurred with deliberate intent (with malice) to cause an injury to another. Requisites i. Freedom Voluntariness on the part of the person who commits the act or omission. If there is lack of freedom, the offender is exempt from liability (i.e., presence of irresistible force or uncontrollable fear) ii. Intelligence
Capacity to know and understand the consequences of ones act. This power is necessary to determine the morality of human acts, the lack of which leads to non-existence of a crime. If there is lack of intelligence, the offender is exempt from liability. (i.e., offender is an imbecile, insane or under 15 years of age) iii. Criminal intent
The purpose to use a particular means to effect a result. The intent to commit an act with malice, being purely a mental state, is presumed (but only if the act committed is unlawful). Such presumption arises from the proof of commission of an unlawful act. However, in some crimes, intent cannot be presumed being an integral element thereof; so it has to be proven. Example: In frustrated homicide, specific intent to kill is not presumed but must be proven, otherwise it is merely physical injuries.
Art. 275. Abandonment of person in danger and abandonment of one's own victim. 10 Art. 116. Misprision of treason. 11 Black's Law Dictionary, 5th ed., p. 889
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Recuerdo v. People (2006): General criminal intent is an element of all crimes but malice is properly applied only to deliberate acts done on purpose and with design. Evil intent must unite with an unlawful act for there to be a felony. A deliberate and unlawful act gives rise to a presumption of malice by intent. On the other hand, specific intent is a definite and actual purpose to accomplish some particular thing. The general criminal intent is presumed from the criminal act and in the absence of any general intent is relied upon as a defense, such absence must be proved by the accused. Generally, a specific intent is not presumed. Its existence, as a matter of fact, must be proved by the State just as any other essential element. This may be shown, however, by the nature of the act, the circumstances under which it was committed, the means employed and the motive of the accused Note: If any of the elements is absent, there is no dolo. If there is no dolo, there could be no intentional felony.12 Categories of Intent General Criminal Intent The intention to do something wrong. Presumed from the mere doing of a wrong act. The burden is upon the wrong doer to prove that he acted without such criminal intent. Specific Criminal Intent The intention to commit a definite act. Existence presumed. is not
If he is successful, then the presumption that he intended to do something wrong is overcome along with the need to determine specific intent. However, the result of Ernies act will now determine his liability. Was his act justified that he incurs no liability? Is he entitled to any exemption? Or is his liability only mitigated? DISTINCTION Between Intent, Discernment and Motive (ASKED 4 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) INTENT Determination to do a certain thing, an aim or purpose of the mind. Establish the nature and extent of culpability in intentional felonies. DISCERNMENT The mental capacity to tell right from wrong. Integral to the element of intelligence, NOT intent. MOTIVE It is the moving power which impels one to do an act (ex. vengeance). Generally, it is not an essential element of a crime, hence, it need not be proved for purposes of conviction (except in certain cases enumerated below)
When Motive Becomes Material in Determining Criminal Liability (ASKED ONCE IN BAR EXAMS) i. ii. iii. iv. When the act brings about variant crimes (e.g. kidnapping v. robbery13) When there is doubt as to the identity of the assailant. When there is the need to ascertain the truth between two antagonistic versions of the crime. When the identification of the accused proceeds from an unreliable source and the testimony is inconclusive and not free from doubt. When there are no eyewitnesses to the crime, and when suspicion is likely to fall upon a number of persons. When the evidence on the commission of the crime is purely circumstantial. Lack of motive can aid in achieving acquittal of the accused, especially where there is doubt as to the identity of the accused.14
Since the specific intent is an element of the crime, the burden is upon the prosecution to establish its existence.
v. Illustration: Ernie, without any provocation, stabbed Bert. vi. The very act of stabbing is the quantum of proof needed to establish the fact that Ernie intended to do something wrong. This is the GENERAL CRIMINAL INTENT. However, Ernie can be liable for more than one crime; thus, prosecution must establish Ernies SPECIFIC INTENT in order to determine whether he planned to kill Bert or merely to inflict a whole lot of pain. Ernie can overturn the presumption of general criminal intent by proving that he was justified (infra), entitled to any exempting circumstances
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Illustration: Ernie came home and found his wife in a pleasant conversation with Bert, former suitor. Thereupon, he went to the kitchen, opened a drawer and pulled out a knife. He then stabbed Bert. The moving force is jealousy.
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2) 3)
Stabbing the victim whom the accused believed to be an intruder showed a mistake of fact on his part which led him to take the facts as they appear to him and was pressed to take immediate action.
However, mistake of fact is NOT availing in People v. Oanis (74 Phil. 257), because the police officers were at fault when they shot the escaped convict who was sleeping, without first ascertaining his identity. (It is only when the fugitive is determined to fight the officers of law trying to catch him that killing the former would be justified) (2) Culpa (CONSTRUCTIVE INTENT) Although there is no intentional felony, there could be culpable felony. The act or omission is not malicious; the injury caused being simply the incident of another act performed without malice. The element of criminal intent is replaced by negligence, imprudence, lack of foresight or lack of skill. Is culpa merely a mode of committing a crime or a crime in itself? (a) AS A MODE
(1) Mistake of Fact (ignorantia facti excusat) (ASKED ONCE IN BAR EXAMS) It is a reasonable misapprehension of fact on the part of the person causing injury to another. Such person is NOT criminally liable as he acted without criminal intent. Under this principle, what is involved is the lack of intent on the part of the accused. Therefore, the defense of mistake of fact is an untenable defense in culpable felonies, where there is no intent to consider. An honest mistake of fact destroys the presumption of criminal intent which arises upon the commission of a felonious act.
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Act of Dolo
OR
Act of Culpa
FELONY
People vs. Faller (1939): It was stated indirectly that criminal negligence or culpa is just a mode of incurring criminal liability. In this case, the accused was charged with malicious mischief. Malicious mischief is an intentional negligence under Article 327. Thus, there is no malicious mischief through simple negligence or reckless imprudence because it requires deliberateness. The Supreme Court pointed out that although the allegation in the information charged the accused with an intentional felony, yet the words feloniously and unlawfully, which are standard languages in an information, covers not only dolo but also culpa because culpa is just a mode of committing a felony. (b) AS A CRIME In Art. 365, criminal negligence is an omission which the article specifically penalizes. The concept of criminal negligence is the inexcusable lack of precaution on the part of the person performing or failing to perform an act. Art. 365 creates a distinction between imprudence and negligence; simple or reckless, one might think that criminal negligence is the one being punished. Act of Dolo
OR
Act of Culpa
INTENTIONAL
Requisites: FELONIES (a) Freedom (b) Intelligence (c) Negligence, reckless imprudence, foresight or lack of skill;
People v. Buan (1968): The accused was driving a passenger bus. Allegedly because of his recklessness, the bus collided with a jeep injuring the passengers of the latter. A case was filed against the accused for slight
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It is not a case between two parties involved in an incident but rather between an individual and the State. (c) Rule Of Negative Ingredient This is related to the doctrine of proximate cause and applicable when certain causes leading to the result are not identifiable. This rule states that: i. The prosecution must first identify what the accused failed to do. ii. Once this is done, the burden of evidence shifts to the accused. iii. The accused must show that the failure did not set in motion the chain of events leading to the injury.17
D. Impossible Crimes
Purpose of punishing impossible crimes: To suppress criminal propensity or criminal tendencies. Objectively, the offender has not committed a felony, but subjectively, he is a criminal. Requisites: (1) That the act performed would be an offense against persons or property. (2) That the act was done with evil intent. The offender intends to commit a felony against persons or against property, and the act performed would have been an offense against persons or property. It must be shown that the actor performed the act with the intent to do an injury to another. However, it should not be actually performed, for otherwise, he would be liable for that felony.
(3) That its accomplishment is inherently impossible, or that the means employed is either inadequate or ineffectual.
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E. Stages of Execution
Classification Under Art. 6 a. Consummated Felony When all the elements necessary for its execution and accomplishment are present; the felony is produced. b. Frustrated Felony When the offender performs all the acts of execution which would produce the felony as a consequence but which, nevertheless, do not produce it by reason of causes independent of the will of the perpetrator. c. Attempted Felony When the offender commences the commission of a felony directly by overt acts, and does not perform all the acts of execution which should produce the felony by reason of some cause or accident other than his own spontaneous desistance.
Development of a Crime
ELEMENTS OF CRIMINAL LIABILITY Actus Reus Mens Rea Concurrence Result Causation IMPOSSIBLE CRIME Lacking due to: i. inherent impossibility ii. employment of inadequate means ATTEMPTED Intervention other than own desistance; some but not all acts of execution FRUSTRATED CONSUMMATED
a. Overt act A commission of the felony is deemed commenced when the following are present: (1) There are external acts. (2) Such external acts have a direct connection with the crime intended to be committed. Overt act: Some physical activity or deed (but not necessarily physical, depending on the nature of the felony) indicating the intention to commit a particular crime, more than a mere planning or preparation, which if carried to its complete termination following its natural course, without being frustrated by external obstacles nor by the voluntary desistance of the perpetrator, will logically and necessarily ripen into a concrete offense. Rait v. People (2008): The Court found that the petitioners acts of successfully removing victims clothing and inserting
his finger to the victims vagina were overt or external acts in the crime of rape. The acts were clearly the first or some subsequent step in a direct movement towards the commission of the offense after the preparations are made. Had it not been for the victims strong physical resistance, petitioners next step would, logically, be having carnal knowledge of the victim. b.
Development of a crime
(1) Internal acts
Intent, ideas and plans; generally not punishable. The intention and act must concur. Illustration: Ernie plans to kill Bert (2) External acts
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Acts Performed
Overt acts of execution are started BUT Not all acts of execution are present Due to reasons other than the spontaneous desistance of the perpetrator Offender still in subjective phase because he still has control of his acts, including their natural cause.
Why
a.
Attempted Stage But, it does not negate all criminal liability, if the desistance was made when acts done by him already resulted in a felony, The offender will still be criminally liable for the felony brought about by his act. What is negated is only the attempted stage, but there may be other felonies arising from his act. Note: Desistance is true only in the attempted stage of the felony. If the felony is already in its frustrated stage, desistance will NOT negate criminal liability. Illustration: Supposing Ernie (because he thought killing Bert was too easy a revenge) desisted midstroke. However, Bert felt the movement and turned. He was so shocked that he suddenly backed away and tripped over his own feet. As Bert went down, his left eye caught the sharp corner of a table causing a puncture on his eyeball rendering him completely blind on the left side. Ernie would not be liable for attempted murder because of his desistance (regardless of his reason for doing so) His liability would now be for serious physical injuries because his act of raising the knife was the proximate cause for Bert losing an eye.
Elements: (1) The offender commences the commission of the felony directly by overt acts; (2) He does not perform all the acts of execution which should produce the felony; (3) The non-performance of all acts of execution was due to cause or accident other than his own spontaneous desistance. Marks the commencement of the subjective phase: Subjective phase - That portion of the acts constituting a crime, starting from the point where the offender begins the commission of the crime to that point where he still has control over his acts including their (acts) natural course If between those two points, the offender is stopped by reason of any cause outside of his own voluntary desistance, the subjective phase has not been passed and it is merely an attempt. Illustration: The subjective phase for Ernie was from the moment he swung his arm to stab Bert up until he finished his stroke. This is the interim where he still has control of his actions. Desistance is an absolutory cause which negates criminal liability because the law encourages a person to desist from committing a crime.
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The word directly emphasizes the requirement that the attempted felony is that which is directly linked to the overt act performed by the offender, not the felony he has in his mind. People v. Lamahang (1935): The accused was arrested while he was detaching some of the wood panels of a store. He was already able to detach two panels. Held: In criminal law, since the act of removing the panel indicates only at most the intention to enter, he can only be prosecuted for trespass. There is nothing in the record to justify a concrete finding that his final objective, once he succeeded in entering the store, was to rob, to cause physical injury to the inmates, or to commit any other offense. The removal of the paneling is just an attempt to trespass, not an attempt to rob. Although Lamahang was charged with attempted robbery, the Supreme Court held that he is only liable for attempted trespass because that is the crime that can be directly linked to his act of removing the wood panel. There are some acts which are ingredients of a certain crime, but which are, by themselves, already criminal offenses. People v. Campuhan (2000): The mother of the 4-year-old victim caught the houseboy Campuhan in the act of almost raping her daughter. The hymen of the victim was still intact. However, since it was decided in People v. Orita that entry into labia is considered rape even without rupture and full penetration of the hymen, a question arises whether what transpired was attempted or consummated rape. Held: There was only attempted rape. Mere touching of external genitalia by the penis is already rape. Touching should be understood as inherently part of entry of penis penetration and not mere touching, in the ordinary sense, of the pudendum. Requires entry into the labia, even if there be no rupture of the hymen or laceration of the vagina, to warrant a conviction for consummated rape. Where entry into the labia has not been established, the crime amounts to an attempted rape. The prosecution did not prove that Campuhans penis was able to penetrate victims vagina because the kneeling position of the accused obstructed the mothers view of the alleged sexual contact. The testimony of the victim herself claimed that penis grazed but did not penetrate her organ.
b.
Elements (1) The offender performs all the acts of execution; (2) All the acts performed would produce the felony as a consequence; (3) But the felony is not produced; (4) By reason of causes independent of the will of the perpetrator. The end of the subjective phase and the beginning of the objective phase. Objective phase the result of the acts of execution, that is, the accomplishment of the crime. If the subjective and objective phases have been passed there is a consummated felony. People v. Listerio (2000): Brothers Jeonito and Marlon were walking when they met a group composed of men who blocked their path and attacked them with lead pipes and bladed weapons. One stabbed Jeonito from behind. Jeonitos brother, Marlon, was hit on the head. Held: 1) The SC held that the crime is a frustrated felony not an attempted offense considering that after being stabbed and clubbed twice in the head as a result of which he lost consciousness and fell. Marlon's attackers apparently thought he was already dead and fled. 2) A crime cannot be held to be attempted unless the offender, after beginning the commission of the crime by overt acts, is prevented, against his will, by some outside cause from performing all of the acts which should produce the crime. 3) In other words, to be an attempted crime, the purpose of the offender must be thwarted by a foreign force or agency which intervenes and compels him to stop prior to the moment when he has performed all of the acts which should produce the crime as a consequence, which acts it is his intention to perform. 4) If he has performed all the acts which should result in the consummation of the crime and voluntarily desists from proceeding further, it cannot be an attempt. Crimes which do not admit of frustrated stage (a) Rape The essence of the crime is carnal knowledge. No matter what the offender may do to accomplish a penetration, if there was no penetration yet, it cannot be said that the offender has performed all the acts of execution.
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People v. Orita (1990): For this reason, rape admits only of the attempted and consummated stages, no frustrated stage. (see the previously cited case of People v. Campuhan for the most recent doctrine on penetration). (b) Arson One cannot say that the offender, in the crime of arson, has already performed all the acts of execution which could produce the destruction of the premises through the use of fire, unless a part of the premises has begun to burn. The crime of arson is therefore consummated even if only a portion of the wall or any part of the house is burned. The consummation of the crime of arson does not depend upon the extent of the damage caused. (People v. Hernandez) (c) Bribery and Corruption of Public Officers The manner of committing the crime requires the meeting of the minds between the giver and the receiver. If there is a meeting of the minds, there is consummated bribery or consummated corruption. If there is none, it is only attempted. (d) Adultery This requires the sexual contact between two participants. If that link is present, the crime is consummated; (e) Physical Injuries Under the Revised Penal Code, the crime of physical injuries is penalized on the basis of the gravity of the injuries. There is no simple crime of physical injuries. There is the need to categorize because there are specific articles that apply whether the physical injuries are serious, less serious or slight. Thus, one could not punish the attempted or frustrated stage because one does not know what degree of physical injury was committed unless it is consummated. Illustration: When Bert lost his left eye, Ernies liability was automatically for serious physical injuries. He would have no liability if the eye was intact. If the eye suffered damage due to the impact, the crime would not be frustrated nor attempted physical injuries because the RPC still considers this as a consummated physical injury, its gravity
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b.
(1) Along with the manner of execution, there are crimes wherein the existence of certain elements becomes the factor in determining its consummation. (2) In the crime of estafa, the element of damage is essential before the crime could be consummated. If there is no damage, even if the offender succeeded in carting away the personal property involved, estafa cannot be considered as consummated. (3) On the other hand, if it were a crime of theft, damage or intent to cause damage is not an element of theft. (4) What is necessary only is intent to gain, not even gain is important. (5) In the crime of abduction, the crucial element is the taking away of the woman with lewd designs. c. The Nature of the Crime Itself
In defining of the frustrated stage of crimes involving the taking of human life (parricide, homicide, and murder), it is indispensable that the victim be mortally wounded. Hence, the general rule is that there must be a fatal injury inflicted, because it is only then that death will follow.
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In some exceptional situations, having community of design with the principal does not prevent a malefactor from being regarded as an accomplice if his role in the perpetration of the homicide or murder was, relatively speaking, of a minor character. (People v. Nierra) Illustration: There was a planned robbery, and the taxi driver was present during the planning. The taxi driver agreed for the use of his cab but said, I will bring you there, and after committing the robbery I will return later. The taxi driver brought the conspirators where the robbery would be committed. After the robbery was finished, he took the conspirators back to his taxi and brought them away. It was held that the taxi driver was liable only as an accomplice. His cooperation was not really indispensable. The robbers could have engaged another taxi. The taxi driver did not really stay during the commission of the robbery. At most, what he only extended was his cooperation. Siton v. CA, (1991): The idea of a conspiracy is incompatible with the idea of a free-for-all. It is not enough that the attack be joint and simultaneous; it is necessary that the assailants be animated by one and the same purpose. A conspiracy must be shown to exist as clearly and convincingly as the crime itself. There is no definite opponent or definite intent as when a basketball crowd beats a referee to death. Distinctions between the liability of a conspirator and that of a member of a band where the crime committed is robbery which is attended by other crimes. (1) A conspirator is liable only for such other crimes which could be foreseen and which are the natural and logical consequences of the conspiracy. Thus, if the conspiracy is only to rob the victim, rape is not a foreseeable consequence. (People v. Castillo) (2) A member of a band in a robbery cuadrilla, on the other hand, is liable for all assaults, inclusive of rape and homicide, where he was present when these crimes were being committed but he did not attempt to prevent the same. (Art. 296 (2), RPC). (3) If both conspiracy to rob and cuadrilla are present, both rules may apply, in this manner: (a) If a homicide was committed, the lookout is liable therefore under the conspiracy theory; (b) if a rape was committed and the lookout was present but did not try to prevent it, he will be liable under the cuadrilla rule; and (c) if the lookout was not present when the homicide was committed, he will not be liable for the rape
Stage
Legal requirements
Illustration A, B, C and D came to an agreement to commit rebellion. Their agreement was to ring about the rebellion on a certain date. Even if none of them has performed the act of rebellion, there is already criminal liability arising from the conspiracy to commit the rebellion. But if anyone of them has committed the overt act of rebellion, the crime of all is no longer conspiracy but rebellion itself. This subsists even though the other co-conspirators do not know that one of them had already done the act of rebellion. Three persons plan to rob a bank. For as long as the conspirators merely entered the bank there is no crime yet. But when one of them draws a gun and disarms the security guard, all of them shall be held liable, unless a coconspirator was absent from the scene of the crime or he showed up, but he tried to prevent the commission of the crime.
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AS A FELONY IN ITSELF
Preparatory acts
Mere agreement
The RPC must specifically punish the act of conspiring (and proposing) The act MUST NOT BE ACCOMPLISHED, else the conspiracy is obliterated and the ACT ITSELF IS PUNISHED. QUANTUM OF PROOF: Conspiracy as a crime must be established beyond reasonable doubt
Executory acts
Participants acted in concert or simultaneously or IN ANY WAY which is indicative of a meeting of the minds towards a common criminal goal or criminal objective. The act of meeting together is not necessary as long as a common objective can be discerned from the overt acts. THE ACT MUST BE ACCOMPLISHED, if there is only conspiracy or proposal, THERE IS NO CRIME TO BE PUNISHED. QUANTUM OF PROOF: Reasonably inferred from the acts of the offenders when such acts disclose or show a common pursuit of the criminal objective. (People v. Pinto)
G. Multiple Offenders
Recidivism/Reincindencia; Habituality/Reiteracion/ Art. 14 (9) Repetition; Art. 14 (10) Sufficient that the offender have been previously convicted by final judgment for another crime embraced in the same title of the Code on the date of his trial No period of time The second conviction for The previous and an offense embraced in subsequent offenses must the same title of RPC NOT be embraced in the Quasi-Recidivism; Art. 160 Before serving or while serving sentence, the offender commits a felony (NOT a crime) Before serving or while serving sentence Offender commits a felony Habitual Delinquency; Art. 62 (5) Specified: 1. less serious or serious physical injuries 2. robbery 3. theft 4. estafa 5. falsification Within 10 years from his last release or conviction Guilty the third time or oftener
Crimes committed
Necessary that the offender shall have served out his sentence for the first offense
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Their effects
If not offset by any mitigating circumstance, Not always an aggravating increase the penalty only circumstance to the maximum
1. Recidivism
Basis: the greater perversity of the offender, as shown by his inclination to commit crimes A recidivist is one who, at the time of his trial for one crime, shall have been previously convicted by final judgment of another crime embraced in the same title of the Revised Penal Code. (People v. Lagarto, 1991) Requisites (1) Offender is on trial for an offense (2) He was previously convicted by final judgment of another crime (3) Both the first and second offenses are embraced in the same title of the RPC (4) Offender is convicted of the new offense Note: What is controlling is the time of trial, not the time of commission of the crime. (Reyes, Revised Penal Code)
Requisites (1) Offender had been convicted of any of the crimes of serious or less serious physical injuries, robbery, theft, estafa, or falsification (2) After that conviction or after serving his sentence, he again committed, and, within 10 years from his release or first conviction, he was again convicted of any of the said crimes for the second time (3) After his conviction of, or after serving sentence for, the second offense, he again committed, and, within 10 years from his last release or last conviction, he was again convicted of any of said offenses, the third time or oftener Purpose of the law in imposing additional penalty To render more effective social defense and the reformation of habitual delinquents (REYES, quoting People v. Abuyen) See also: Aggravating circumstances
2. Habituality (Reiteracion)
Basis: same as recidivism Requisites (1) Accused is on trial for an offense (2) He previously served sentence a. for another offense to which the law attaches an equal or greater penalty, OR b. for two or more crimes to which it attaches lighter penalty than that for the new offense (3) He is convicted of the new offense
3. Quasi-Recidivism
Art. 160. Commission of another crime during service of penalty imposed for another offense; Penalty. Besides the provisions of Rule 5 of Article 62, any person who shall commit a felony after having been convicted by final judgment, before beginning to serve such sentence, or while serving the same, shall be punished by the maximum period of the penalty prescribed by law for the new felony.
4. Habitual Delinquency
Art. 62, last par. For the purpose of this article, a person shall be deemed to be habitual delinquent, if within a period of ten years from the date of his release or last conviction of the crimes of serious or less serious physical injuries, robo, hurto estafa or falsification, he is found guilty of any of said crimes a third time or oftener.
A Complex crime is not just a matter of penalty, but of substance under the Revised Penal Code. Kinds of Plurality of Crimes a. Real or Material Plurality
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(2) That the single acts produces: i. 2 or more grave felonies, or ii. 1 or more grave and 1 or more less grave felonies, or iii. 2 or more less grave felonies Light felonies produced by the same act should be treated and punished as separate offenses or may be absorbed by the grave felony. Illustration: When the crime is committed by force or violence, slight physical injuries are absorbed. So that when an offender performed more than one act, although similar, if they result in separate crimes, i. there is no complex crime at all, ii. instead, the offender shall be prosecuted for as many crimes as are committed under separate information. Compound crimes under Art. 48 is also applicable to crimes through negligence. Thus, a municipal mayor who accidentally discharged his revolver, killing a girl and injuring a boy was found guilty of complex crime of homicide with less serious physical injuries through reckless imprudence. (People v. Castro) Example of a compound crime: The victim was killed while discharging his duty as barangay captain to protect life and property and enforce law and order in his barrio. The crime is a complex crime of homicide with assault upon a person in authority. When in obedience to an order several accused simultaneously shot many persons, without evidence how many each killed, there is only a single offense, there being a single criminal impulse.
1. Complex Crimes
(ASKED 5 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) Art. 48. Penalty for complex crimes. When a single act constitutes two or more grave or less grave felonies, or when an offense is a necessary means for committing the other, the penalty for the most serious crime shall be imposed, the same to be applied in its maximum period. Art. 48 requires the commission of at least 2 crimes. But the two or more GRAVE or LESS GRAVE felonies must be (1) the result of a single act, or (2) an offense must be a necessary means for committing the other. Nature of complex crimes Although two or more crimes are actually committed, they constitute only one crime, in the eyes of the law; and in the conscience of the offender. Even in the case where an offense is a necessary means for committing the other, the evil intent of the offender is only one. Hence, there is only one penalty imposed for the commission of a complex crime. Monteverde vs. People (2002): No complex crime when: 1. Two or more crimes are committed, but not by a single act; 2. Committing one crime is not a necessary means for committing the other (or others)
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Requisites: (1) That at least two offenses are committed (2) That one or some of the offenses must be necessary to commit the other (3) That both or all the offenses must be punished under the same statute. Note: The phrase necessary means does not mean indispensable means People vs. Comadre (2004): The single act by appellant of detonating a hand grenade may quantitatively constitute a cluster of several separate and distinct offenses, yet these component criminal offenses should be considered only as a single crime in law on which a single penalty is imposed because the offender was impelled by a single criminal impulse which shows his lesser degree of perversity. No complex crime proper: (a) Subsequent acts of intercourse, after forcible abduction with rape, are separate acts of rape. (b) Not complex crime when trespass to dwelling is a direct means to commit a grave offense. (c) No complex crime, when one offense is committed to conceal the other. (d) When the offender already had in his possession the funds which he misappropriated, the subsequent falsification of a public or official document involving said offense is a separate offense. (e) No complex crime where one of the offenses is penalized by a special law. (f) There is no complex crime of rebellion with murder, arson, robbery, or other common crimes (People v. Hernandez; Enrile v. Salazar). (g) In case of continuous crimes. (h) When the other crime is an indispensable element of the other offense. General rules in complexing crimes: (a) When two crimes produced by a single act are respectively within the exclusive jurisdiction of two courts of different jurisdiction, the court of higher jurisdiction shall try the complex crime. (b) The penalty for complex crime is the penalty for the most serious crime, the same to be applied in its maximum period. (c) When two felonies constituting a complex crime are punishable by imprisonment and fine, respectively, only the penalty of imprisonment should be imposed. (d) Art. 48 applies only to cases where the Code does not provide a definite specific penalty for a complex crime. (e) One information should be filed when a complex crime is committed. (f) When a complex crime is charged and one offense is not proven, the accused can be convicted of the other. (g) Art. 48 also applies in cases when out of a single act of negligence or imprudence, two or more
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Whenever the Supreme Court concludes that the criminals should be punished only once, because they acted in conspiracy or under the same criminal impulse: it is necessary to embody these crimes under one single information. It is necessary to consider them as complex crimes even if the essence of the crime does not fit the definition of Art 48, because there is no other provision in the RPC. Applying the concept of the continued crime, the following cases have been treated as constituting one crime only: i. People v. Tumlos, (1939): The theft of 13 cows belonging to two different persons committed by the accused at the same place and period of time; ii. People v. Jaranilla, (1974): The theft of six roosters belonging to two different owners from the same coop and at the same period of time; iii. People v. Sabbun, (1964): The illegal charging of fees for service rendered by a lawyer every time he collected veterans benefits on behalf of a client who agreed that attorneys fees shall be paid out of such benefits. The collections of legal fees were impelled by the same motive, that of collecting fees for services rendered, and all acts of collection were made under the same criminal impulse. The Supreme Court declined to apply the concept in the following cases: i. People v. Dichupa, (1961): Two estafa cases, one which was committed during the period from January 19 to December, 1955 and the other from January 1956 to July 1956. Said acts were committed on two different occasions; ii. People v. CIV: Several malversations committed in May, June and July 1936 and falsifications to conceal said offenses committed in August and October, 1936. The malversations and falsifications were not the result of one resolution to embezzle and falsity; In the THEFT cases: The trend is to follow the single larceny doctrine: i. taking of several things, ii. whether belonging to the same or different owners,
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Abandoned is the doctrine that the government has the discretion to prosecute the accused for one offense or for as many distinct offenses as there are victims.
Imputability is the quality by which an act may be ascribed to a person as it author or owner. It implies that the act committed has been freely and consciously done and may, therefore, be put down to th doer as his very own Responsibility is the obligation of suffering the consequences of crime. It is the obligation of taking the penal and civil consequences of the crime. Imputability distinguished from responsibility while imputability implies that a deed may be imputed to a person, responsibility implies that the person must take the consequences of such a deed. Guilt is an element of responsibility, for a man cannot be made to answer for the consequences of a crime unless he is guilty. (Reyes, Revised Penal Code)
An affirmative defense, hence, the burden of evidence rests on the accused who must prove the circumstance by clear and convincing evidence. There is NO crime committed, the act being justified. Thus, such persons cannot be considered criminals. Basis: Lack of criminal intent
1. Self Defense
Includes not only the defense of the person or body of the one assaulted but also that of his rights, the enjoyment of which is protected by law. It includes: a. The right to honor. Hence, a slap on the face is considered as unlawful aggression since the face represents a person and his dignity. (Rugas vs, People) The defense of property rights can be invoked if there is an attack upon the property although it is not coupled with an attack upon the person of the owner of the premises. All the elements for justification must however be present. (People v. Narvaez) Unlawful aggression (1) Equivalent to an actual physical assault; OR threatened assault of an immediate and imminent kind which is offensive and positively strong, showing the wrongful intent to cause harm. (2) The aggression must constitute a violation of the law. When the aggression ceased to exist, there is no longer a necessity to defend ones self. EXCEPT: when the
A. Justifying Circumstances
(ASKED 30 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) FIVE TYPES of justifying circumstances: 1. Self defense 2. Defense of relatives 3. Defense of strangers 4. Avoidance of a greater evil 5. Fulfillment of duty 6. Obedience to an order issued for some lawful purpose Justifying Circumstances those where the act of a person is said to be in accordance with law, so that such person is deemed not to have transgressed the law and is free from both criminal and civil liability. There is no civil liability except in par. 4, Art. 11, where the civil liability is borne by the persons benefited by the act. b.
Elements:
a.
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People vs. Apolinar: This can only be invoked as justifying circumstance if (1) Life and limb of the person making the defense is also the subject of unlawful aggression (2) Life cannot be equal to property. People v. Narvaez (1983): Narvaez was taking his rest inside his house when he heard that the wall of his house was being chiseled. He saw that Fleischer and Rubia, were fencing the land of the father of the deceased Fleischer. He asked the group to stop but they refused. The accused got mad so he got his shotgun and shot Fleischer. Rubia ran towards the jeep and knowing there is a gun on the jeep, the accused fired at Rubia as well. Narvaez claimed he acted in defense of his person and rights. Held: There was aggression by the deceased not on the person of the accused but on his property rights when Fleischer angrily ordered the continuance of the fencing. The third element of self-defense is also present because there was no sufficient provocation on the part of Narvaez since he was sleeping when the deceased where fencing. However, the second element was lacking. Shooting the victims from the window of his house is disproportionate to the physical aggression by the
Marzonia v. People (2006): Held: As the Court previously held, mortally wounding an assailant with a penknife is not a reasonably necessary means to repel fist blows. a. Defense of Honor:
People v. Dela Cruz (1935): Accused was found guilty of homicide for stabbing and killing Rivera.
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2. Defense of Relatives
Elements: (1) Unlawful aggression Unlawful aggression may not exist as a matter of fact, it can be made to depend upon the honest belief of the one making the defense. Reason: The law acknowledges the possibility that a relative, by virtue of blood, will instinctively come to the aid of their relatives. (2) Reasonable necessity of means employed to prevent or repel it (3) In case person attacked provoked attacker defender must have no part therein Reason: Although the provocation prejudices the person who gave it, its effects do not reach the defender who took no part therein, because the latter was prompted by some noble or generous sentiment in protecting and saving a relative Relatives entitled to defense: i. Spouse ii. Ascendants iii. Descendants iv. legitimate, natural or adopted Brothers/Sisters v. Relatives by affinity in the same degree vi. Relatives by consanguinity w/in the 4th civil degree Illustration: The sons of A honestly believe that their father was the victim of an unlawful aggression when in fact it was their father who attacked B. If they killed B under such circumstances, they are justified. Balunueco v. CA (2003): Held: Of the three (3) requisites of defense of relatives, unlawful aggression is a condition sine qua non, for without it any defense is not possible or justified. In order to consider that an unlawful aggression was actually committed, it is necessary that an attack or material aggression, an offensive act positively determining the intent of the aggressor to cause an injury shall have been made;a mere threatening or intimidating attitude is not sufficient to justify the commission of an act which is punishable per se, and allow a claim of exemption from liability on the ground that it was committed in self-defense or defense of a relative.
Basis: What one may do in his defense, another may do for him. The ordinary man would not stand idly by and see his companion killed without attempting to save his life
3. Defense of Strangers
Elements: (1) Unlawful aggression; (2) Reasonable necessity of the means employed to prevent or repel it;
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People v. Delima (1922): Napilon escaped from the jail where he was serving sentence. Some days afterwards the policeman, Delima, who was looking for him found him in the house of Alegria, armed with a pointed piece of bamboo in the shape of a lance. Delima demanded the surrender of the weapon but Napilon refused. Delima fired his revolver to impose his authority but the bullet did not hit him. The criminal ran away and Delima went after him and fired again his revolver this time hitting and killing him. Held: The killing was done in the performance of a duty. The deceased was under the obligation to surrender and had no right, after evading service of his sentence, to commit assault and disobedience with a weapon in his hand, which compelled the policeman to resort to such extreme means, which, although it proved to be fatal, was justified by the circumstance.
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(1) Where minor battering occurs, it could be a verbal or slight physical abuse or another form of hostile behavior. (2) The woman tries to pacify the batterer through a show of kind, nurturing behavior, or by simply staying out of the way. (3) But this proves to be unsuccessful as it only gives the batterer the notion that he has the right to abuse her. ii. Second Phase: Acute Battering Incident
(1) Characterized by brutality, destructiveness, and sometimes death. (2) The battered woman has no control; only the batterer can stop the violence. (3) The battered woman realizes that she cannot reason with him and resistance would only worsen her condition. iii. Third Phase: Tranquil Period (1) Characterized by guilt on the part of the batterer and forgiveness on the part of the woman. (2) The batterer may show a tender and nurturing behavior towards his partner and the woman also tries to convince herself that the battery will never happen again and that her partner will change for the better. Four Characteristics of the Syndrome: (1) The woman believes that the violence was her fault; (2) She has an inability to place the responsibility for the violence elsewhere; (3) She fears for her life and/or her childrens life (4) She has an irrational belief that the abuser is omnipresent and omniscient.
Anti-Violence against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 (R.A. 9262) Battered Woman Syndrome- refers to a
scientifically defined pattern of psychological and behavioral symptoms found in women living in battering relationships as a result of cumulative abuse. Battered Woman Syndrome as a Defense. Victim-survivors who are found by the courts to be suffering from battered woman syndrome do not incur any criminal and civil liability notwithstanding the absence of any of the elements for justifying circumstances of self-defense under the Revised Penal Code. In the determination of the state of mind of the woman who was suffering from battered woman syndrome at the time of the commission of the crime, the courts shall be assisted by expert psychiatrists/ psychologists [SECTION 26, RA 9262]
B. Exempting Circumstances
(ASKED 14 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) SIX 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. TYPES of exempting circumstances: Imbecility/Insanity Minority Accident Compulsion of irresistible force Impulse of uncontrollable fear Insuperable or lawful cause
IMPORTANT POINTS: The reason for the exemption lies in the involuntariness or lack of knowledge of the act: (1) one or some of the ingredients of criminal liability such as criminal intent, intelligence, or freedom of action on the part of the offender is missing (2) In case it is a culpable felony, there is absence of freedom of action or intelligence, or absence
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2. Minority
Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 (R.A. 9344); also refer to Child and Youth Welfare Code (P.D. 603, as amended) a. Definition of child in conflict with the law
Section 4 (e). "Child in conflict with the law" a child who is alleged as, accused of, or adjudged as, having committed an offense under Philippine laws.
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The
age of a child may be determined from: The childs birth certificate, Baptismal certificate, or Any other pertinent documents.
In the absence of these documents, age may be based on: information from the child himself/herself, testimonies of other persons, the physical appearance of the child, and other relevant evidence. In case of doubt as to the childs age, it shall be resolved in his/her favor.
3. Accident
(Damnum Absque Injuria) Requisites: (1) A person performing a lawful act; (2) With due care; (3) He causes an injury to another by mere accident; (4) Without fault or intention of causing it. Accident - something that happens outside the sway of our will and, although coming about through some act of our will, lies beyond the bounds of humanly foreseeable consequences. Under Article 12, paragraph 4, the offender is exempt not only from criminal but also from civil liability. Illustration: A person who is driving his car within the speed limit, while considering the condition of the traffic and the pedestrians at that time, tripped on a stone with one of his car tires. The stone flew hitting a pedestrian on the head. The pedestrian suffered profuse bleeding. There is no civil liability under paragraph 4 of Article 12. Although this is just an exempting circumstance, where generally there is civil liability, yet, in paragraph 4 of Article 12, there is no civil liability as well as criminal liability. The driver is not under obligation to defray the medical expenses.
4. Irresistible Force
Elements: (1) That the compulsion is by means of physical force. (2) That the physical force must be irresistible. (3) That the physical force must come from a third person Note: Before a force can be considered to be an irresistible one, it must produce such an effect on the individual that, in spite of all resistance, it
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5. Uncontrollable Fear
Requisites: (1) That the threat which causes the fear is of an evil greater than or at least equal to, that which he is forced to commit; (2) That it promises an evil of such gravity and imminence that the ordinary man would have succumbed to it. A threat of future injury is not enough. The compulsion must be of such a character as to leave no opportunity to the accused for escape or selfdefense in equal combat. Illustration: A is forced at gun point to forge the signature of B.
See Part F for absolutory causes US v. Exaltacion (1905): Exaltacion and Tanchico were convicted w/ rebellion based on documents found in the house of Contreras, a so-called general of bandits, containing signatures of defendants swearing allegiance to the Katipunan. Defendants aver that these documents were signed under duress and fear of death. They allege further that they were abducted by thieves and that these men forced the defendants to sign the documents Held: The duress under which the defendants acted relieved them from criminal liability . Prosecution was unable to prove the guilt of the accused and testimonies of witnesses for the accused further corroborated their defense.
C. Mitigating Circumstances
(ASKED 19 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) TWELVE TYPES of mitigating circumstances: 1. Incomplete Justification and Exemption 2. Under 18 or Over 70 years of age 3. No intention to commit so grave a wrong 4. Sufficient Provocation or Threat 5. Immediate vindication of a grave offense 6. Passion or obfuscation 7. Voluntary surrender 8. Voluntary plea of guilt 9. Plea to a lower offense 10. Physical defect 11. Illness 12. Analogous Circumstances Mitigating circumstances or causas attenuates are those which, if present in the commission of the crime, do not entirely free the actor from criminal liability, but serve only to reduce the penalty. Basis: They are based on the diminution of either freedom of action, intelligence or intent or on the lesser perversity of the offender. However, voluntary surrender and plea of guilt which, being circumstances that occur after the commission of the offense, show the accuseds respect for the law (voluntary surrender) and remorse and acceptance of punishment (plea of guilt), thereby necessitating a lesser penalty to effect his rehabilitation (based on the Positivist School)
Irresistible Force Irresistible force must operate directly upon the person of the accused and the injury feared may be a lesser degree than the damage caused by the accused. Offender uses physical force or violence to compel another person to commit a crime.
Uncontrollable Fear Uncontrollable fear may be generated by a threatened act directly to a third person such as the wife of the accused, but the evil feared must be greater or at least equal to the damage caused to avoid it. Offender employs intimidation or threat in compelling another to commit a crime.
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Privileged MC Cannot be offset by aggravating circumstance The effect of imposing upon the offender the penalty lower by one or two degrees than that provided by law for the crime.
Requisites under par. 4 of Art. 11: (1) That the evil sought to be avoided actually exists; (2) That the injury feared be greater than that done to avoid it; (3) That there be no other practical and less harmful means of preventing it. Avoidance of greater evil or injury is a justifying circumstance if all the three requisites mentioned in par. 4 of Art. 11 are present. But if any of the last two requisites is lacking, there is only a mitigating circumstance. The first element is indispensable. c. Incomplete justifying performance of duty circumstance of
1. Incomplete
Exemption
Justification
and
The circumstances of justification or exemption which may give place to mitigation, because not all the requisites necessary to justify the act or to exempt from criminal liability in the respective cases are attendant, are the following: (1) Self-defense (Art. 11, par. 1) (2) Defense of relatives (Art. 11, par. 2) (3) Defense of strangers (Art. 11, par. 3) (4) State of necessity (Art. 11, par. 4) (5) Performance of duty (Art. 11, par. 5) (6) Obedience to the order of superiors (Art. 11, par. 6) (7) Minority over 15 years of age but below 18 years of age (Art. 12, par. 3) (8) Causing injury by mere accident (Art. 12, par.4) (9) Uncontrollable fear (Art. 12 par. 6)
Requisites under par.5, Art. 11 (1) That the accused acted in the performance of a duty or in the lawful exercise of a right or office; and (2) That the injury caused or offense committed be the necessary consequence of the due performance of such duty or the lawful exercise of such right or office. In the case of People v. Oanis (1943), where only one of the requisites was present, Article 69 was applied. People v. Oanis (1943): The SC considered one of the 2 requisites as constituting the majority. It seems that there is no ordinary mitigating circumstance under Art. 13 par. 1 when the justifying or exempting circumstance has 2 requisites only.
In these 3 classes of defense, UNLAWFUL AGGRESSION must always be present. It is an indispensable requisite. Par. 1 of Art. 13 is applicable only when unlawful aggression is present but one or both of the other 2 requisites are not present in any of the cases referred to in circumstances number 1, 2 and 3 or Art. 11.
Requisites under par. 4 of Art. 12: (1) A person is performing a lawful act (2) With due care (3) He causes an injury to another by mere accident (4) Without fault or intention of causing it There is NO SUCH MITIGATING CIRCUMSTANCE because:
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Requisites under par. 6 of Art. 12: (1) That the threat which caused the fear was of an evil greater than, or at least equal to, that which he was required to commit; (2) That it promised an evil of such gravity and imminence that an ordinary person would have succumbed to it. Note: If only one of these requisites is present, there is only a mitigating circumstance.
Legal effects of various ages of offenders: 1. 15 and below - Exempting 2. Above 15 but under 18 years of age, also an exempting circumstance, unless he acted with discernment (Art. 12, par. 3 as amended by RA 9344). 3. Minor delinquent under 18 years of age, the sentence may be suspended. (Art. 192, PD No. 603 as amended by PD 1179) 4. 18 years or over, full criminal responsibility. 5. 70 years or over mitigating, no imposition of death penalty; if already imposed. Execution of death penalty is suspended and commuted. Determination of Age The child in conflict with the law shall enjoy the presumption of minority. He/She shall enjoy all the rights of a child in conflict with the law until he/she is proven to be eighteen (18) years old or older. The age of a child may be determined from the child's birth certificate, baptismal certificate or any other pertinent documents. In the absence of these documents, age may be based on information from the child himself/herself, testimonies of other persons, the
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People v. Calleto (2002): Held: The lack of "intent" to commit a wrong so grave is an internal state. It is weighed based on the weapon used, the part of the body injured, the injury inflicted and the manner it is inflicted. The fact that the accused used a 9-inch hunting knife in attacking the victim from behind, without giving him an opportunity to defend himself, clearly shows that he intended to do what he actually did, and he must be held responsible therefor, without the benefit of this mitigating circumstance. People v. Ural (1974): Held: The intention, as an internal act, is judged not only by the proportion of the means employed by him to the evil produced by his act, but also by the fact that the blow was or was not aimed at a vital part of the body. Thus, it may be deduced from the proven facts that the accused had no intent to kill the victim, his design being only to maltreat him, such that when he realized the fearful consequences of his felonious act, he allowed the victim to secure medical treatment at the municipal dispensary.
TIP: The common set-up given in a bar problem is that of provocation given by somebody against whom the person provoked cannot retaliate; thus the person provoked retaliated on a younger brother or on the father. Although in fact, there is sufficient provocation, it is not mitigating because the one who gave the provocation is not the one against whom the crime was committed. You have to look at two criteria: a. If from the element of time, (1) there is a material lapse of time stated in the problem and (2) there is nothing stated in the problem that the effect of the threat of provocation had prolonged and affected the offender at the time he committed the crime (3) then you use the criterion based on the time element. b. If there is that time element and at the same time, (1) facts are given indicating that at the time the offender committed the crime, he is still suffering from outrage of the threat or provocation done to him (2) then he will still get the benefit of this mitigating circumstance. Romera v. People (2004: Provocation and passion or obfuscation are not 2 separate mitigating circumstances. It is well-settled that if these 2 circumstances are based on the same facts, they should be treated together as one mitigating circumstance. It is clear that both circumstances arose from the same set of facts. Hence, they should not be treated as two separate mitigating circumstances.
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Effect of Arrest General Rule: Not mitigating when defendant was in fact arrested. (People v. Conwi) Exceptions: (1) But where a person, after committing the offense and having opportunity to escape, voluntarily waited for the agents of the authorities and voluntarily gave up, he is entitled to the benefit of the circumstance, even if he was placed under arrest by a policeman then and there. (People v. Parana) (2) Where the arrest of the offender was after his voluntary surrender or after his doing an act amounting to a voluntary surrender to the agent of a person in authority. (People v. Babiera; People v. Parana) Person in Authority and his Agent Person in authority is one directly vested with jurisdiction, that is, a public officer who has the power to govern and execute the laws whether as an individual or as a member of some court or governmental corporation, board or commission. A barrio captain and a barangay chairman are also persons in authority. (Art. 152, RPC, as amended by PD No. 299). Agent of a person in authority is a person, who, by direct provision of law, or by election or by competent authority, is charged with the maintenance of public order and the protection and security of life and property and any person who comes to the aid of persons in authority. (Art. 152, as amended by RA 1978). Time of Surrender The RPC does not distinguish among the various moments when the surrender may occur. (Reyes, Revised Penal Code). The fact that a warrant of arrest had already been issued is no bar to the consideration of that circumstance because the law does not require that the surrender be prior the arrest. (People v. Yecla and Cahilig). What is important is that the surrender be spontaneous.
7. Voluntary Surrender
Requisites: (1) That the offender had not been actually arrested (2) That the offender surrendered himself to a person in authority or to the latters agent (3) That the surrender was voluntary. Two Mitigating Circumstances Under This Paragraph: (1) Voluntary surrender to a person in authority or his agents; (2) Voluntary confession of guilt before the court prior to the presentation of evidence for the prosecution. Whether or not a warrant of arrest had been issued is immaterial and irrelevant. Criterion is whether or not a. the offender had gone into hiding b. and the law enforcers do not know of his whereabouts. Note: For voluntary surrender to be appreciated, the surrender must be spontaneous, made in such a
8. Plea Of Guilt
Requisites: (1) That the offender spontaneously confessed his guilt. (2) That the confession of guilt was made in open court, that is, before the competent court that is to try the case; and The extrajudicial confession made by the accused is not voluntary confession because it was made outside the court. (People v. Pardo)
charged. Also, Sec. 2, Rule 116, of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure requires the consent of the offended party and the prosecutor before an accused may be allowed to plead guilty to a lesser offense necessarily included in the offense charged. The prosecution rejected the offer of the accused.
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10.
Physical Defects
(3) That the confession of guilt was made prior to the presentation of evidence for the prosecution. The change of plea should be made at the first opportunity when his arraignment was first set. A conditional plea of guilty is not mitigating. Plea of guilt on appeal is not mitigating. Withdrawal of plea of not guilty before presentation of evidence by prosecution is still mitigating. All that the law requires is voluntary plea of guilty prior to the presentation of the evidence by the prosecution. A plea of guilty on an amended information will be considered as an attenuating circumstance if no evidence was presented in connection with the charges made therein. (People v. Ortiz)
This paragraph does not distinguish between educated and uneducated deaf-mute or blind persons. Physical defect referred to in this paragraph is such as being armless, cripple, or a stutterer, whereby his means to act, defend himself or communicate with his fellow beings are limited. The physical defect that a person may have must have a relation to the commission of the crime. Where the offender is deaf and dumb, personal property was entrusted to him and he misappropriated the same. The crime committed was estafa. The fact that he was deaf and dumb is not mitigating since that does not bear any relation to the crime committed. If a person is deaf and dumb and he has been slandered, he cannot talk so what he did was he got a piece of wood and struck the fellow on the head. The crime committed was physical injuries. The Supreme Court held that being a deaf and dumb is mitigating because the only way is to use his force because he cannot strike back in any other way.
11.
Illness
Elements: (1) That the illness of the offender must diminish the exercise of his will-power (2) That such illness should not deprive the offender of consciousness of his acts. When the offender completely lost the exercise of will-power, it may be an exempting circumstance. It is said that this paragraph refers only to diseases of pathological state that trouble the conscience or will. A mother who, under the influence of a puerperal fever, killed her child the day following her delivery. People v. Javier (1999): Javier was married to the deceased for 41 years. He killed the deceased and then stabbed himself in the abdomen. Javier was found guilty of parricide. In his appeal, he claims that he killed his wife because he was suffering from insomnia for a month and at the time of the killing, his mind went totally blank and he did not know what he was doing. He also claims that he was insane then.
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12.
Analogous Circumstances
Mitigating
Any other circumstance of similar nature and analogous to the nine mitigating circumstances enumerated in art. 513 may be mitigating. (1) The act of the offender of leading the law enforcers to the place where he buried the instrument of the crime has been considered as equivalent to voluntary surrender. (2) Stealing by a person who is driven to do so out of extreme poverty is considered as analogous to incomplete state of necessity. Canta v. People: Canta stole a cow but alleges that he mistook the cow for his missing cow. He made a calf suckle the cow he found and when it did, Canta thought that the cow he found was really his. However, he falsified a document describing the said cows cowlicks and markings. After getting caught, he surrendered the cow to the custody of the authorities in the municipal hall. Held: Cantas act of voluntarily taking the cow to the municipal hall to place it in the custody of authorities (to save them the time and effort of having to recover the cow) was an analogous circumstance to voluntary surrender. (3) Over 60 years old with failing sight, similar to over 70 years of age mentioned in par. 2. (People v. Reantillo). (4) Voluntary restitution of stolen goods similar to voluntary surrender (People v. Luntao). (5) Impulse of jealous feelings, similar to passion and obfuscation. (People v. Libria). (6) Extreme poverty and necessity, similar to incomplete justification based on state of necessity. (People v. Macbul). (7) Testifying for the prosecution, without previous discharge, analogous to a plea of guilty. (People v. Narvasca).
D. Aggravating Circumstances
(ASKED 24 TIMES IN BAR EXAMS) Those circumstances which raise the penalty for a crime in its maximum period provided by law applicable to that crime or change the nature of the crime. Note: The list in this Article is EXCLUSIVE there are no analogous aggravating circumstances.
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Aggravating circumstances which do not have the effect of increasing the penalty: (1) Aggravating circumstances which in themselves constitute a crime especially punishable by law. (2) Aggravating circumstances which are included by the law in defining a crime and prescribing the penalty therefore shall not be taken into account for the purpose of increasing the penalty. (Art. 62, par. 1). (3) The same rule shall apply with respect to any aggravating circumstance inherent in the crime to such a degree that it must of necessity accompany the commission thereof. (Art. 62, par. 2). Aggravating circumstances which are personal to the offenders. Aggravating circumstances which arise: (1) from moral attributes of the offender; (2) from his private relations with the offended party; or (3) from any personal cause, shall only serve to aggravate the liability of the principals, accomplices, accessories as to whom such circumstances are attendant. (Art. 62, par. 3). Aggravating circumstances which depend for their application upon the knowledge of offenders. The circumstances which consist (1) in the material execution of the act, or (2) in the means employed to accomplish it, shall serve to aggravate the liability of those persons only who had knowledge of them at the time of the execution of the act or their cooperation therein. (Art. 62, par. 4).
1. Generic
TWENTY-ONE aggravating circumstances under Art. 14: 1. Taking Advantage of Public Office 2. In Contempt Of Or With Insult To Public Authorities 3. With Insult Or Lack Of Regard Due To Offended Party By Reason Of Rank, Age Or Sex 4. Abuse Of Confidence And Obvious Ungratefulness 5. Crime In Palace Or In Presence Of The Chief Executive 6. Nighttime; Uninhabited Place; With A Band 7. On Occasion Of A Calamity 8. Aid Of Armed Men Or Means To Ensure Impunity 9. Recidivism 10. Reiteration or Habituality 11. Price, Reward Or Promise
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Requisites: (1) That the public authority is engaged in the exercise of his functions. (2) That he who is thus engaged in the exercise of his functions is not the person against whom the crime is committed. (3) The offender knows him to be a public authority. (4) His presence has not prevented the offender from committing the criminal act. Public Authority / Person in Authority is a person directly vested with jurisdiction, that is, a public officer who has the power to govern and execute the laws. The councilor, mayor, governor, barangay captain, barangay chairman etc. are persons in authority. (Art. 152, as amended by P.D. 1232) A school teacher, town municipal health officer, agent of the BIR, chief of police, etc. are now considered a person in authority. Par. 2 is not applicable if committed in the presence of an agent only such as a police officer. Agent - A subordinate public officer charged with the maintenance of public order and the protection and security of life and property, such as barrio policemen, councilmen, and any person who comes to the aid of persons in authority. (Art. 152, as amended by BP 873). Knowledge that a public authority is present is essential. Lack of such knowledge indicates lack of intention to insult public authority. If crime is committed against the public authority while in the performance of his duty, the offender commits direct assault without this aggravating circumstance. People v. Rodil (1981): There is the aggravating circumstance that the crime was committed in contempt of or with insult to public authorities when the chief of police was present when the incident occurred. The chief of police should be considered a public authority because he is vested with authority to maintain peace and order over the entire municipality.
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Illustration: Husband and wife quarrelled. Husband inflicted physical violence upon a wife. The wife left the conjugal home and went to the house of her sister bringing her personal belongings with her. The sister accommodated the wife in her home. The husband went to the house of the sister-in-law and tried to persuade the wife to return to the conjugal home but the wife refused since she was more at peace in her sisters home than in their conjugal abode. Due to the wifes refusal the husband pulled out a knife and stabbed the wife to death. It was held that dwelling was aggravating although it is not owned by the victim since she is considered a member of the family who owns the dwelling and that place is where she enjoyed privacy, peace of mind and comfort. People vs. Taoan: Teachers, professors, supervisors of public and duly recognized private schools, colleges and universities, as well as lawyers are persons in authority for purposes of direct assault and simple resistance, but not for purposes of aggravating circumstances in paragraph 2, Article 14. People v. Tao (2000): Held: Dwelling cannot be appreciated as an aggravating circumstance in this case because the rape was committed in the ground floor of a twostory structure, the lower floor being used as a video rental store and not as a private place of abode or residence. People v. Arizobal (2000): Generally, dwelling is considered inherent in the crimes which can only be committed in the abode of the victim, such as trespass to dwelling and robbery in an inhabited place. However, in robbery with homicide the authors thereof can commit the heinous crime without transgressing the sanctity of the victim's domicile. In the case at bar, the robbers demonstrated an impudent disregard of the inviolability of the victims' abode when they forced their way in, looted their houses, intimidated and
b.
OBVIOUS UNGRATEFULNESS (1) That the offended party had trusted the offender; (2) That the offender abused such trust by committing a crime against the offended party; (3) That the act be committed with obvious ungratefulness.
The ungratefulness must be obvious: (1) manifest and (2) clear. In a case where the offender is a servant, the offended party is one of the members of the family. The servant poisoned the child. It was held that
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As regards the place where the public authorities are engaged in the discharge of their duties, there must be some performance of public functions.
6. Nighttime
Par. 6 That the crime be committed in the night time, or in an uninhabited place, or by a band, whenever such circumstances may facilitate the commission of the offense. Whenever more than three armed malefactors shall have acted together in the commission of an offense, it shall be deemed to have been committed by a band. These 3 circumstances may be considered separately: (1) when their elements are distinctly perceived and (2) can subsist independently, (3) revealing a greater degree of perversity. Requisites: (1) When it facilitated the commission of the crime; or (2) When especially sought for by the offender to insure the commission of the crime or for the purpose of impunity; or (3) When the offender took advantage thereof for the purpose of impunity. a. NIGHTTIME (Nocturnidad) The commission of the crime must begin and be accomplished in the nighttime (after sunset and before sunrise). Nighttime by and of itself is not an aggravating circumstance. The offense must be actually committed in the darkness of the night. When the place is illuminated by light, nighttime is not aggravating. Nighttime need not be specifically sought for when: (1) the offender purposely took advantage of nighttime; or (2) it facilitated the commission of the offense. b. UNINHABITED PLACE (Desplobado) It is determined not by the distance of the nearest house to the scene of the crime but whether or not in the place of the commission of the offense, there was a reasonable possibility of the victim receiving some help. Solitude must be sought to better attain the criminal purpose. (People v. Aguinaldo) The offenders must choose the place as an aid either (1) to an easy and uninterrupted
Par. 5 Par. 2 Where public Contempt or insult to authorities are engaged public authorities in the discharge of their duties. Public authorities are engaged in the performance of their duties. Public duty is performed Public duty is performed in their office outside of their office The offended party may The public authority
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In this case, other than the time of the occurrence of the felony, nothing else suggests that it was consciously resorted to by Bermas. In fact, the crime was well illuminated by two pressure gas lamps. Also, if treachery is also present in the commission of the crime, nighttime is absorbed in treachery and can not be appreciated as a generic aggravating circumstance.
7. On Occasion of a Calamity
Par. 7. That the crime be committed on the occasion of a conflagration, shipwreck, earthquake, epidemic or other calamity or misfortune. The rationale for this AC is the debased form of criminality of one who, in the midst of a great calamity, instead of lending aid to the afflicted, adds to their suffering by taking advantage of their misfortune and despoiling them. The offender must take advantage of the calamity or misfortune. OR OTHER CALAMITY OR MISFORTUNE refers to other conditions of distress similar to conflagration, shipwreck, earthquake or epidemic.
Illustration: A is on board a banca, not so far away. B and C also are on board their respective bancas. Suddenly, D showed up from underwater and stabbed B. Is there an aggravating circumstance of uninhabited place here? Yes, considering the fact that A and C before being able to give assistance still have to jump into the water and swim towards B and the time it would take them to do that, the chances of B receiving some help was very little, despite the fact that there were other persons not so far from the scene. People v. Librando (2000): Edwin, his daughter Aileen, and a relative, Fernando, were traversing a hilly portion of a trail on their way home when they met Raelito Librando, Larry and Eddie. Edwin was carrying a torch at that time as it was already dark. Raelito inquired from Edwin the whereabouts of Fernando and without any warning hit Edwin with a piece of wood. Eddie followed suit and delivered another blow to Edwin. Edwin ran but he was chased by Raelito. Thereafter, the three men took turns hitting Edwin with pieces of wood until the latter fell and died. The trial court considered nighttime and uninhabited place as just one aggravating circumstance. Held: The court did not err in considering nighttime and uninhabited place as just one aggravating circumstance. The court cited the case of People vs. Santos where it has been held that if the aggravating circumstances of nighttime, uninhabited place or band concur in the commission of the crime, all will constitute one aggravating circumstance only as a general rule although they can be considered separately if their elements are distinctly perceived and can subsist independently, revealing a greater degree of perversity. People v. Bermas (1999): By and of itself, nighttime is not an aggravating circumstance; it becomes so only when: 1) it is specially sought by the offender; or
Not applicable When both the attacking party and the party attacked were equally armed. When the accused as well as those who cooperated with him in the commission of the crime acted under the same plan and for the same purpose. Casual presence, or when the offender did not avail himself of their aid nor knowingly count upon their assistance in the commission of the crime. Par. 6 By a band Requires more than 3 armed malefactors Requires that more than three armed malefactors shall have Par. 8 With aid of armed men At least two armed men This circumstance is present even if one of the offenders merely
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People v. Licop: Aid of armed men includes armed women. Note: Aid of armed men employment of a band. is absorbed by
Recidivism does not prescribe. No matter how long ago the offender was convicted, if he is subsequently convicted of a crime embraced in the same title of the Revised Penal Code, it is taken into account as aggravating in imposing the penalty. Pardon does not erase recidivism, even if it is absolute because it only excuses the service of the penalty, not the conviction. However, if a person was granted an amnesty, and thereafter he is convicted of another crime of the same class as the former crimes, his former conviction would not be aggravating. According to Art. 89, amnesty extinguishes not only the penalty but also its effects. If the offender has already served his sentence and he was extended an absolute pardon, o the pardon shall erase the conviction including recidivism because there is no more penalty o so the pardon shall be understood as referring to the conviction or the effects of the crime. Illustration: In 1980, A committed robbery. While the case was being tried, he committed theft in 1983. He was also found guilty and was convicted of theft also in 1983. The conviction became final because he did not appeal anymore and the trial for the earlier crime of robbery ended in 1984 for which he was also convicted. He also did not appeal this decision. Is the accused a recidivist? NO. The subsequent conviction must refer to a felony committed later in order to constitute recidivism. The reason for this is at the time the first crime was committed, there was no other crime of which he was convicted so he cannot be regarded as a repeater. People vs. Molina (2000): To prove recidivism, it is necessary to allege the same in the information and to attach thereto certified copies of the sentences rendered against the accused. Nonetheless, the trial court may still give such AC credence if the accused does not object to the presentation. People v. Dacillo (2004): In order to appreciate recidivism as an aggravating circumstance, it is necessary to allege it in the information and to attach certified true copies of
9. Recidivism (Reincidencia)
Par. 8 That the crime be committed with the aid of armed men or persons who insure or afford impunity. Requisites: (1) That the offender is on trial for an offense; (2) That he was previously convicted by final judgment of another crime; (3) That both the first and the second offenses are embraced in the same title of the Code; (4) That the offender is convicted of the new offense. Different forms of repetition or habituality of offender a. Recidivism under Article 14 (9)The offender at the time of his trial for one crime shall have been previously convicted by final judgment of another embraced in the same title of the Revised Penal Code. b. Repetition or reiteracion under Article 14 (9)The offender has been previously punished for an offense to which the law attaches an equal or greater penalty or for two or more crimes to which it attaches a lighter penalty. c. Habitual delinquency under Article 62 (5)The offender within a period of 10 years from the date of his release or last conviction of the crimes of serious or less serious physical injuries, robo, hurto, estafa or falsification, is found guilty of any of the said crimes a third time or another. d. Quasi-recidivism under Article 160Any person who shall ` a felony after having been convicted by final judgment before beginning to serve such sentence or while serving such sentence shall be punished by the maximum period prescribed by law for the new felony In recidivism, the crimes committed should be felonies. There is no recidivism if the crime committed is a violation of a special law. What is controlling is the time of the trial, not the time of the commission of the offense (i.e. there was already a conviction by final judgment at the time of the trial for the second crime). What is required is previous conviction at the time of the trial. The best evidence of a prior conviction is a certified copy of the original judgment of conviction, and such evidence is always admissible and conclusive unless the accused
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10.
Reiteracion/Habituality
Par. 10 That the offender has been previously punished by an offense to which the law attaches an equal or greater penalty or for two or more crimes to which it attaches a lighter penalty. Requisites: (1) That the accused is on trial for an offense; (2) That he previously served sentence for another offense to which the law attaches: (a) an equal or (b) greater penalty, or (c) for 2 or more crimes to which it attaches lighter penalty than that for the new offense; and (3) That he is convicted of the new offense. In Reiteracion or Habituality, it is essential that the offender be previously punished; that is, he has served sentence. Par. 10 speaks of penalty attached to the offense, not the penalty actually imposed Par. 9 Recidivism It is enough that a final judgment has been rendered in the first offense. Requires that the offenses be included in the same title of the Code Always to be taken into consideration in fixing the penalty to be imposed upon the accused Rationale is the proven tendency to commit a similar offense Art. 14, Par. 9 Recidivism Two convictions are enough The crimes are not specified; it is enough that they may be embraced under the same title of the Revised Penal Code Par. 10 Reiteracion It is necessary that the offender shall have served out his sentence for the first offense. The previous and subsequent offenses must not be embraced in the same title of the Code Not always aggravating circumstance an
There is no time limit between the first conviction and the subsequent conviction. Recidivism is imprescriptible.
It is a generic aggravating circumstance which can be offset by an ordinary mitigating circumstance. If not offset, it would only increase the penalty prescribed by law for the crime committed to its maximum period
Since reiteracion provides that the accused has duly served the sentence for previous conviction/s, or is legally considered to have done so, quasi-recidivism cannot at the same time constitute reiteracion, hence the latter cannot apply to a quasi-recidivist. If the same set of facts constitutes recidivism and reiteracion, the liability of the accused should be aggravated by recidivism which can be easily proven. People v. Cajara (2000): Accused Cajara raped 16year old Marita in front of his common-law wife who is the half-sister of the victim and his two small children. The trial court convicted him as charged and sentenced him to death. Held: The records show that the crime was aggravated by reiteracion under Art. 14, par. 10, of The Revised Penal Code, the accused having been convicted of frustrated murder in 1975 and of homicide, frustrated homicide, trespass to dwelling, illegal possession of firearms and murder sometime in 1989 where his sentences were later commuted to imprisonment for 23 years and a fine of P200,000.00. He was granted conditional pardon by the President of the Philippines on 8 November 1991. Reiteracion or habituality under Art. 14, par. 10, herein cited, is present when the accused has been previously punished for an offense to which the law attaches an equal or greater penalty than that attached by law to the second offense or for two or more
Rationale is the proven resistance to rehabilitation Art. 62 par. 5 Habitual Delinquency At least three convictions are required The crimes are limited and specified to: a. serious physical injuries, b. Less serious physical injuries, c. robbery, d. theft, e. estafa or swindling and
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11.
There is no such crime as murder with arson or arson with homicide. The crime is only murder. If the intent is to destroy property - the crime is arson even if someone dies as a consequence. If the intent is to kill - there is murder even if the house is burned in the process. Illustration: A and B were arguing about something. One argument led to another until A struck B to death with a bolo. A did not know that C, the son of B was also in their house and who was peeping through the door and saw what A did. Afraid that A might kill him too, he hid somewhere in the house. A then dragged Bs body and poured gasoline on it and burned the house altogether. As a consequence, C was burned and eventually died too. As far as the killing of B is concerned, it is homicide since it is noted that they were arguing. It could not be murder. As far as the killing of C is concerned, it is arson since he intended to burn the house only.
When this AC is present, there must be 2 or more principals: a. the one who gives or offers the price or promise; and b. the one who accepts it. Both of whom are principals to the former, because he directly induces the latter to commit the crime, and the latter because he commits it. When this AC is present, it affects not only the person who received the price or reward, but also the person who gave it. The evidence must show that one of the accused used money or valuable consideration for the purpose of inducing another to perform the deed. (U.S. v. Gamao). If without previous promise it was given voluntarily after a crime was committed as an expression of his appreciation for the sympathy and aid shown by the other accused, it should not be taken into consideration for the purpose of increasing the penalty.
13.
Par. 12 That the act be committed with evident premeditation. Requisites: (1) The time when the offender determined to commit the crime; (2) An act manifestly indicating that the culprit has clung to his determination; and (3) A sufficient lapse of time between the determination and execution, to allow him to reflect upon the consequences of his act and to allow is conscience to overcome the resolution of his will. Evident premeditation implies a deliberate planning of the act before executing it. The essence of premeditation an opportunity to coolly and serenely think and deliberate o on the meaning and o consequences of what he planned to do, an interval long enough for his conscience and better judgment to overcome his evil desire and scheme. (People v. Durante) The premeditation must be based upon external facts, and must be evident, not merely suspected indicating deliberate planning.
The price, reward or promise: Need not consist of or refer to material things; or That the same were actually delivered, o it being sufficient that the offer made by the principal by inducement was accepted by the principal by direct participation before the commission of the offense.
12.
Par. 12 That the crime be committed by means of inundation, fire, poison, explosion, stranding of a vessel or international damage thereto, derailment of a locomotive, or by the use of any other artifice involving great waste and ruin. Unless used by the offender as a means to accomplish a criminal purpose, any of the circumstances in paragraph 12 cannot be considered to increase the penalty or to change the nature of the offense.
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Illustrations: 1. A and B fought on Monday. A told B that someday he will kill B. On Friday, A killed B. 2. C and D fought on Monday but since C already suffered so many blows, he told D, This week shall not pass, I will kill you. On Friday, C killed D. Is there evident premeditation in both cases? None in both cases. What condition is missing to bring about evident premeditation? Evidence to show that between Monday and Friday, the offender clung to his determination to kill the victim, acts indicative of his having clung to his determination to kill B. 3. A and B had a quarrel. A boxed B. A told B, I will kill you this week. A bought firearms. On Friday, he waited for B but killed C instead.
14.
Was there evident premeditation? There is aberratio ictus. So, qualify. Insofar as B is concerned, the crime is attempted murder because there is evident premeditation. However, that murder cannot be considered for C. Insofar as C is concerned, the crime is homicide because there was no evident premeditation. People v. Salpigao: Evident premeditation is presumed to exist when conspiracy is directly established. When conspiracy is merely implied, evident premeditation cannot be presumed, the
Par. 14 That the craft, fraud or disguise be employed. Involves intellectual trickery and cunning on the part of the accused. It is employed as a scheme in the execution of the crime. FRAUD Insidious words or machinations used o to induce the victim o to act in a manner
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CRAFT Craft and fraud may be o absorbed in treachery if they have been deliberately adopted as the means, methods or forms for the treacherous strategy, or o they may co-exist independently where they are adopted for a different purpose in the commission of the crime. Fraud When there is a DIRECT INDUCEMENT by insidious words or machinations Craft The act of the accused was done in order NOT TO AROUSE SUSPICION
DISGUISE Resorting to any device to conceal identity. The test of disguise is o whether the device or contrivance resorted to by the offender o was intended to or did make identification more difficult, such as the use of a mask, false hair or beard. But if in spite of the use of handkerchief to cover their faces, the culprits were recognized by the victim, disguise is not considered aggravating. People v. San Pedro: Where the accused pretended to hire the driver in order to get his vehicle, it was held that there was craft directed to the theft of the vehicle, separate from the means subsequently used to treacherously kill the defenseless driver. People v. Masilang: There was also craft where after hitching a ride, the accused requested the driver to take them to a place to visit somebody, when in fact they had already planned to kill the driver. People v. Labuguen (2000): Craft involves intellectual trickery and cunning on the part of the offender. When there is a direct inducement by insidious words or machinations, fraud is present. By saying that he would accompany the victim to see the cows which the latter intended to buy, appellant was able to lure the victim to go with him.
15.
To TAKE ADVANTAGE of superior strength means to use purposely excessive force out of proportion to the means of defense available to the person attacked. Superiority may arise from aggressors sex, build, weapon or number as compared to that of the victim (e.g. accused attacked an unarmed girl with a knife; 3 men stabbed to death the female victim).
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The essence of treachery is that by virtue of the means, method or form employed by the offender, the offended party was not able to put up any defense. If the offended party was able to put up a defense, even only a token one, there is no treachery. Instead, some other aggravating circumstance may be present but it is no longer treachery. Rules Regarding Treachery (1) Applicable only to crimes against persons. (2) Means, methods or forms need not insure accomplishment or consummation of the crime. The treacherous character of the means employed in the aggression does not depend upon the result thereof but upon the means itself. Thus, frustrated murder could be aggravated by treachery. (3) The mode of attack must be consciously adopted. The accused must make some preparation to kill the deceased in such manner as to insure the execution of the crime or to make it impossible or hard for the person attacked to defend himself or retaliate. (People v. Tumaob) It must be a result of meditation, calculation or reflection. (U.S. v. Balagtas) (4) Treachery cannot be presumed. The suddenness of the attack does not, of itself, suffice to support a finding of alevosia, even if the purpose was to kill, so long as the decision was made all of a sudden and the victims helpless position was accidental. (People v. Lubreo). It must be proved by clear and convincing evidence. (People v. Santos). Attacks show intention to eliminate risk: Victim asleep Victim half-awake or just awakened Victim grappling or being held. Attacked from behind Additional rules: When the aggression is CONTINUOUS, treachery must be present in the BEGINNING of the assault. When the assault WAS NOT CONTINUOUS, in that there was an interruption, it is sufficient that treachery was present AT THE MOMENT THE FATAL BLOW WAS GIVEN. Illustration: A and B have been quarreling for some time. One day, A approached B and befriended him. B accepted. A proposed that to celebrate their renewed friendship, they were going to drink. B was having too much to drink. A was just waiting for him to get intoxicated and after which, he stabbed B.
16.
Treachery (Alevosia)
Par. 16 That the act be committed with treachery (alevosia) There is treachery when the offender commits any of the crimes against the person, employing means, methods, or forms in the execution thereof which tend directly and specially to insure its execution, without risk to himself arising from the defense which the offended party might make. Requisites: (1) The employment of means of execution that gave the person attacked no opportunity to defens himself or retaliate; and (2) That the offender consciously adopted the particular means, method or form of attack employed by him. Employment of means, methods and form in the commission of the crime: which tend directly and specially to
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17.
Ignominy
Par. 17 That means be employed or circumstances brought about which add ignominy to the natural effects of the act. It is a circumstance pertaining to the moral order, which adds disgrace to the material injury caused by the crime. The means employed or the circumstances brought about must tend to make the effects of the crime MORE HUMILIATING or TO PUT THE OFFENDED PARTY TO SHAME. Applicable to crimes against chastity, rape, less serious physical injuries, light or grave coercion and murder. Raping a woman from behind is ignominous because that is not the normal form of intercourse, it is something which offends the morals of the offended woman. This is how animals do it.
People v. Rendaje (2000): Treachery qualified the killing to murder. To constitute treachery, two conditions must concur: (1) the employment of means, methods or manner of execution that would ensure the offender's safety from any defense or retaliatory act on the part of the offended party; and (2) the offender's deliberate or conscious choice of the means, method or manner of execution. No one has positively testified on how Lennie was killed but the victims body shows the manner in which she was attacked by her assailant. It eloquently speaks for itself. The injuries established the manner in which the killing was cruelly carried out with little or no risk to the assailant. The number of stab wounds, most of which were inflicted at the back of the child unarmed and alone shows the deliberateness, the suddenness and the unexpectedness of the attack, which thus deprived her of the opportunity to run or fight back. People v. Dumadag (2004): Prudente with his friends including Meliston agreed to meet at a swimming pool to celebrate the feast of St. John. On their way home, there was heavy downpour so they decided to take a shelter at a store where 2 men, 1 of whom is Dumadag are having some drinks. Dumadag offered Prudente a drink of Tanduay but the latter refused then left. Dumadag followed Prudente and stabbed the victim on his breast with a knife which resulted to his death. Held: As a general rule, a sudden attack by the assailant, whether frontally or from behind, is treachery if such mode of attack was deliberately adopted by him with the purpose of depriving the victim of a chance to either fight or retreat. The
People v. Torrefiel (1947): The novelty of the manner in which the accused raped the victim by winding cogon grass around his genitals augmented the wrong done by increasing its pain and adding ignominy thereto. People v. Alfanta (1999): There was ignominy because the accused not only used missionary position but also the same position as dogs do. He also inserted his finger inside her. Although the dog position is not novel and often been used by couples, there is ignominy if the sexual act is performed not by consenting parties. People v. Cachola (2004): For ignominy to be appreciated, it is required that the offense be committed in a manner that tends to make its effect more humiliating, thus adding to the victim's moral suffering. Where the victim was already dead when his body or a part thereof was dismembered, ignominy cannot be taken against the accused. In this case, the information states that Victorino's sexual organ was severed after he was shot and there is no allegation that it was done to add ignominy to the natural effects of the act. We cannot, therefore, consider ignominy as an
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20.
Par. 20 That the crime be committed with the aid of persons under fifteen years of age or by means of motor vehicles, motorized watercraft, airships, or other similar means a. With the aid of persons under 15 years of age To repress, so far as possible, the frequent practice resorted to by professional criminals of availing themselves of minors taking advantage of their lack of criminal responsibility (remember that minors are given leniency when they commit a crime) By means of a motor vehicle To counteract the great facilities found by modern criminals in said means to commit crime and flee and abscond once the same is committed. This circumstance is aggravating only when used in the commission of the offense. If motor vehicles are used only in the escape of the offender, it is not aggravating. It must have been used to facilitate the commission of the crime to be aggravating. Or other similar means the expression should be understood as referring to MOTORIZED vehicles or other efficient means of transportation similar to automobile or airplane.
b.
18.
Unlawful Entry
Par. 18 That the crime be committed after an unlawful entry. There is an unlawful entry when an entrance of a crime a wall, roof, floor, door, or window be broken. There is unlawful entry when an entrance is effected by a way not intended for the purpose. Unlawful entry must be a means to effect entrance and not for escape. There is no unlawful entry when the door is broken and thereafter the accused made an entry thru the broken door. The breaking of the door is covered by paragraph 19.
Unlawful entry is inherent in the crime of trespass to dwelling and robbery with force upon things but aggravating in the crime of robbery with violence against or intimidation of persons.
21.
Cruelty
19.
Requisites: (1) That the injury caused be deliberately increased by causing other wrong; (2) That the other wrong be unnecessary for the execution of the purpose of the offender. For it to exist, it must be shown that the accused enjoyed and delighted in making his victim suffer. If the victim was already dead when the acts of mutilation were being performed, this would also qualify the killing to murder due to outraging of his corpse. Ignominy shocks the moral conscience of man refers to the moral effect of a crime and it pertains to the moral order, whether or not Cruelty physical refers to the physical suffering of the victim so he has to be alive
Par. 19 as a means to the commission of the crime, a wall, roof, floor, door or window be broken. To be considered as an AC, breaking the door must be utilized as a means to the commission of the crime. It is only aggravating in cases where the offender resorted to any of said means TO ENTER the house. If the wall, etc. is broken in order to get out of the place, it is not aggravating. Because of the phrase as a means to the commission of a crime, it is not necessary that the offender should have entered the
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People v. Catian (2002): Catian repeatedly struck Willy with a "chako" on the head, causing Willy to fall on his knees. Calunod seconded by striking the victim with a piece of wood on the face. When Willy finally collapsed, Sumalpong picked him up, carried him over his shoulder, and carried Willy to a place where they burned Willy. The latters skeletal remains were discovered by a child who was pasturing his cow near a peanut plantation. Held: The circumstance of cruelty may not be considered as there is no showing that the victim was burned while he was still alive. For cruelty to exist, there must be proof showing that the accused delighted in making their victim suffer slowly and gradually, causing him unnecessary physical and moral pain in the consummation of the criminal act. No proof was presented that would show that accused-appellants deliberately and wantonly augmented the suffering of their victim. People v. Guerrero (2002): Appellant first severed the victim's head before his penis was cut-off. This being the sequence of events, cruelty has to be ruled out for it connotes an act of deliberately and sadistically augmenting the wrong by causing another wrong not necessary for its commission, or inhumanely increasing the victim's suffering. As testified to by Dr. Sanglay, and reflected in her medical certificate, Ernesto in fact died as a result of his head being severed. No cruelty is to be appreciated where the act constituting the alleged cruelty in the killing was perpetrated when the victim was already dead.
2.
3. 4.
People vs. De Gracia (1994): Ownership is not an essential element of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. What the law requires is merely possession which includes not only actual physical possession but also constructive possession. Palaganas vs. Court of Appeals (2006): With the passage of Republic Act. No. 8294 on 6 June 1997, the use of an unlicensed firearm in murder homicide is now considered as a SPECIAL aggravating circumstance and not a generic aggravating circumstance. Note: Under 2012 Supreme Court Syllabus, acts punishable under PD 1866, as amended by RA 8294, are under the subtopic qualifying aggravating circumstances but tagged as AGGRAVATING only. People vs. Ladjaalam (2000): If an unlicensed firearm is used in the commission of any crime, there can be no separate offense of simple illegal possession of firearms. Hence, if the other crime is murder or homicide, illegal possession of firearms becomes merely an aggravating circumstance, not a separate offense. Since direct assault with multiple attempted homicide was committed in this case, appellant can no longer be held liable for illegal possession of
1. Qualifying
a. Decree Codifying the Laws on llegal/Unlawful Possession etc. of Firearms, Ammunition or Explosives (P.D. 1866, as amended by R.A. 8294) b. The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (R.A.9165)
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(4) the informant or witness has not been previously convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude, except when there is no other direct evidence available for the State other than the information and testimony of said informant or witness; and (5) The informant or witness shall strictly and faithfully comply without delay, any condition or undertaking, reduced into writing, lawfully imposed by the State as further consideration for the grant of immunity from prosecution and punishment.
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iv. Application/Non application of RPC provisions (Sec. 98, R.A. No. 9165) provisions (sec. 98) cf. Art. 10, RPC
Section 98, RA 9165. Limited Applicability of the Revised Penal Code. Notwithstanding any law, rule or regulation to the contrary, the provisions of the Revised Penal Code (Act No. 3814), as amended, shall not apply to the provisions of this Act, except in the case of minor offenders. Where the offender is a minor, the penalty for acts punishable by life imprisonment to death provided herein shall be reclusion perpetua to death. Art. 10, RPC. Offenses not subject to the provisions of this Code. Offenses which are or in the future may be punishable under special laws are not subject to the provisions of this Code. This Code shall be supplementary to such laws, unless the
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When CRIME AGAINST PERSONS is any of the SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURIES (Art. 263), even if the offended party is a descendant of the offender, relationship is AGGRAVATING. But the serious physical injuries must not be inflicted by a parent upon his child by excessive chastisement. When the crime is LESS SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURIES OR SLIGHT PHYSICAL INJURIES if the offended party is a relative of a higher degree than the offender When crime against persons is HOMICIDE OR MURDER, relationship is aggravating even if the victim of the crime is a relative of lower degree. In CRIMES AGAINST CHASTITY, relationship is always aggravating In the CRIME OF QUALIFIED SEDUCTION, the offended woman must be a virgin and less than 18 years old. But if the offender is a brother of the offended woman or an ascendant of the offended woman, o regardless of whether the woman is of bad reputation, o even if the woman is 60 years old or more, crime is qualified seduction. In such a case, relationship is qualifying. c. Where relationship is mitigating When the CRIME IS LESS SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURIES OR SLIGHT PHYSICAL INJURIES if the offended party is a relative of a higher degree than the offender When crime against persons is HOMICIDE OR MURDER, relationship is aggravating even if the victim of the crime is a relative of lower degree. In CRIMES AGAINST CHASTITY, relationship is always aggravating In the CRIME OF QUALIFIED SEDUCTION, the offended woman must be a virgin and less than 18 years old. But if the offender is a brother of the offended woman or an ascendant of the offended woman, o regardless of whether the woman is of bad reputation, o even if the woman is 60 years old or more, crime is qualified seduction. In such a case, relationship is qualifying. When the CRIME IS LESS SERIOUS People v. Atop (1998): 11-year-old Regina lives with
E. Alternative Circumstances
(ASKED TWICE IN BAR EXAMS) THREE TYPES of alternative circumstances: 1. Relationship 2. Intoxication 3. Degree of education/instruction IMPORTANT POINT: Circumstances which must be taken in consideration as aggravating or mitigating according to the nature and effects of the crime
1. Relationship
(BRADSS) i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. Spouse Ascendant Descendant Brother Sister Relative by Affinity
a. Where relationship is exempting In the case of an accessory who is related to the principal within the relationship prescribed in Article 20; Also in Article 247, a spouse does not incur criminal liability for a crime of less serious physical injuries or serious physical injuries if this was inflicted after having surprised the offended spouse or paramour or mistress committing actual sexual intercourse. Those commonly given in Article 332 when the crime of theft, malicious mischief and swindling or estafa. b. Where relationship is aggravating In CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS in cases where the offended party is a relative of a higher degree than the offender (grandson kills grandfather), or
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F. Absolutory Causes
There are FOUR TYPES of absolutory circumstances: 1. INSTIGATION 2. PARDON 3. OTHER ABSOLUTORY CAUSES 4. ACTS NOT COVERED BY LAW AND IN CASE OF EXCESSIVE PUNISHMENT (ART. 5) IMPORTANT POINTS: Acts not covered by law and in case of excessive punishment (art. 5) Absolutory causes are those where the act committed is a crime but for reasons of public policy and sentiment there is no penalty imposed.
2. Intoxication
It is only the circumstance of intoxication which a. if not mitigating, b. is automatically aggravating. a. When mitigating (1) There must be an indication that (a) because of the alcoholic intake of the offender, (b) he is suffering from diminished selfcontrol. (c) It is not the quantity of alcoholic drink. (d) Rather it is the effect of the alcohol upon the offender which shall be the basis of the mitigating circumstance. (2) That offender is (a) not a habitual drinker and (b) did not take alcoholic drink with the intention to reinforce his resolve to commit crime When Aggravating: (1) If intoxication is habitual (2) If it is intentional to embolden offender to commit crime
1. Instigation
Entrapment Ways and means are resorted to for the purpose of trapping and capturing the lawbreaker in the execution of his criminal plan The means originate from the mind of the criminal. A person has planned or is about to commit a crime and ways and means are resorted to by a public officer to trap and catch the criminal. Not a bar to prosecution conviction of lawbreaker. the and the Instigation The instigator practically induces the would-be accused into the commission of the offense and himself becomes a co-principal. The law enforcer conceives the commission of the crime and suggests to the accused who carries it into execution. A public officer or a private detective induces an innocent person to commit a crime and would arrest him upon or after the commission of the crime by the latter. The accused must be acquitted because the offender simply acts as a tool of the law enforcers
b.
People v. Camano (1982): Intoxication is mitigating if accidental, not habitual nor intentional, i.e., not subsequent to the plan to commit the crime. It is aggravating if habitual or intentional. To be mitigating, it must be indubitably proved. A habitual drunkard is one given to intoxication by excessive use of intoxicating drinks. The habit should be actual and confirmed. It is unnecessary that it be a matter of daily occurrence. Intoxication lessens the individual resistance to evil thought and undermines will-power making its victim a potential evil doer. In this case, the intoxication of the appellant not being habitual and considering that the said appellant was in a state of intoxication at the time of the commission of the felony, the alternative circumstance of intoxication should be
EXAMPLE OF ENTRAPMENT: A, a government anti-narcotics agent, acted as a poseur buyer of shabu and negotiated with B, a suspected drug pusher who is unaware that A is a police officer. A then paid B in marked money and
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2. Pardon
General rule: Pardon does not extinguish criminal action (Art 23). Exception: Pardon by marriage between the accused and the offended party in cases of SEDUCTION, ABDUCTION, RAPE AND ACTS OF LASCIVIOUSNESS (Art 344).
h. i. j.
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b.
People v. Veneracion (1995): Held: The law plainly and unequivocally provides that when by reason or on the occasion of rape, a homicide is committed, the penalty shall be death. Courts are not concerned with wisdom, efficacy or morality of law. The discomfort faced by those forced by law to impose death penalty is an ancient one, but it is a matter upon which judges have no choice. The Rules of Court mandates that after an adjudication of guilt, the judges should impose the proper penalty and civil liability provided for by the law on the accused.
This classification is true only under the RPC and is not applied under special laws, because the penalties under the latter are never graduated. Do not use the term principal when the crime committed is a violation of special law (use the term offender/s, culprit/s, accused) As to the liability of the participants in the grave, less grave or light felony: When the felony is grave, or less grave, all participants are criminally liable. But when the felony is only light, only the principal and the accomplice are liable. The accessory is not. Therefore, it is only when the light felony is against persons or property that criminal liability attaches to the principal or accomplice, even though the felony is only attempted or frustrated, but accessories are not liable for light felonies.
EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES
Circumstances which mitigate the criminal liability of the offender but not found in Article 13 Illustration: A kleptomaniac is criminally liable. But he would be given the benefit of a mitigating circumstance analogous to paragraph 9 of Article 13, that of suffering from an illness which diminishes the exercise of his will poser without, however, depriving him of the consciousness of his act. An unwed mother killed her child in order to conceal a dishonor. The concealment of dishonor is an extenuating circumstance insofar as the unwed mother or the maternal grandparents are concerned, but not insofar as the father of the child is concerned. Mother killing her new born child to conceal her dishonor, penalty is lowered by two degrees. Since there is a material lowering of the penalty or mitigating the penalty, this is an extenuating circumstance.
A. Principal
1. 2. 3. By Direct Participation By Inducement By Indispensable Cooperation
1. By Direct Participation
Those who are liable: materially execute the crime; appear at the scene of the crime; perform acts necessary in the commission of the offense. Why one who does not appear at the scene of the crime is not liable: his non-appearance is deemed desistance which is favored and encouraged. conspiracy is generally not a crime unless the law specifically provides a penalty therefore. there is no basis for criminal liability because there is no criminal participation.
2. By Inducement
Inducement must be strong enough that the person induced could not resist. This is tantamount to an irresistible force compelling the person induced to carry out the crime. Ill-advised language is not enough unless he who made such remark or advice is a co-conspirator in the crime committed. When does a principal by induction become liable: The principal by induction becomes liable only when the principal by direct participation committed the act induced. What are the effects of acquittal of principal by direct participation upon the liability of principal by inducement: Conspiracy is negated by the acquittal of codefendant. Illustrations: a. While in the course of a quarrel, a person shouted to A, Kill him! Kill him! A killed the other person. Is the person who shouted criminally liable? Is that inducement? No. The shouting must be an irresistible force for the one shouting to be liable. b. There was a quarrel between two families. One of the sons of family A came out with a shotgun. His mother then shouted, Shoot! He shot and killed someone. Is the mother liable? No. People v. Valderrama (1993): Ernesto shouted to his younger brother Oscar, Birahin mo na, birahin mo na! Oscar stabbed the victim. It was held that there was no conspiracy. Joint or simultaneous action per se is not indicia of conspiracy without showing of common design. Oscar has no rancor with the victim for him to kill the latter. Considering that Ernesto had great moral ascendancy and influence over Oscar, being much older (35 years old) than the latter, who was 18 years old, and it was Ernesto who provided his allowance, clothing as well as food and shelter, Ernesto is principal by inducement. People v. Agapinay (1990): The one who uttered kill him, we will bury him while the felonious aggression was taking place cannot be held liable as principal by inducement. Utterance was said in the excitement of the hour, not a command to be obeyed. People v. Madall (1990): The son was mauled.
The family was not in good terms with their neighbors. The father challenged everybody and when the neighbors approached, he went home to get a rifle. The shouts of his wife here comes another, shoot him cannot make the wife a principal by inducement. It is not the determining cause of the crime in the absence of proof that the words had great influence over the husband. Neither is the wifes act of beaming the victim with a flashlight indispensable to the killing. She assisted her husband in taking good aim, but such assistance merely facilitated the felonious act of shooting. Considering that it was not so dark and the husband could have accomplished the deed without his wifes help, and considering further that doubts must be resolved in favor of the accused, the liability of the wife is only that of an accomplice.
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3. By Indispensable Cooperation
The focus is not just on participation but on the importance of participation in committing the crime. The basis is the importance of the cooperation to the consummation of the crime. If the crime could hardly be committed without such cooperation, then such cooperator would be a principal. If the cooperation merely facilitated or hastened the consummation of the crime, the cooperator is merely an accomplice. In case of doubt, favor the lesser penalty or liability. Apply the doctrine of pro reo.
B. Accomplices
When is one regarded as an accomplice Determine if there is a conspiracy. If there is, as a general rule, the criminal liability of all will be the same, because the act of one is the act of all. What are the other traits of an accomplice does not have previous agreement or understanding; or is not in conspiracy with the principal by direct participation. Conspirator They know of and join in the criminal design Conspirators know the criminal intention because they themselves have Accomplice They know and agree with the criminal design Accomplices come to know about it after the principals have reached the decision and only
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Conspirators decide that a crime should be committed
Note: Even if only two of the principals guilty of murder are the brothers of the accessory and the others are not related to him, such accessory is exempt from criminal liability.
the
Requisites That there be community of design; that is, knowing the criminal design of the principal by direct participation, he concurs with the latter in his purpose; That he cooperates in the execution of the offense by previous or simultaneous acts, with the intention of supplying material or moral aid in the execution of the crime in an efficacious way; and That there be a relation between the acts done by the principal and those attributed to the person charged as accomplice. Principal by Cooperation Cooperation is indispensable to the commission of the act Accomplice Cooperation is not indispensable to the commission of the act
5. Other
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
one
accessory as a fence acquiring the effects of piracy or brigandage destroying the corpus delicti harboring or concealing an offender whether the accomplice and the accessory may be tried and convicted even before the principal is found guilty Accessory as a fence:
1.
C. Accessories 1. When
1. 2.
Presidential Decree No. 1612 (Anti-Fencing Law) One who knowingly profits or assists the principal to profit by the effects of robbery or theft (i.e. a fence) is not just an accessory to the crime, but principally liable for fencing The penalty is higher than that of a mere accessory to the crime of robbery or theft. Mere possession of any article of value which has been the subject of robbery or theft brings about the presumption of fencing. PD 1612 has, therefore, modified Art. 19 of the RPC. 2. Acquiring the effects of piracy or brigandage:
are
not
When the felony committed is a light felony When the accessory is related to the principal as i. spouse ii. ascendant, or descendant, or iii. brother or sister whether legitimate, or natural or adopted or iv. where the accessory is a relative by affinity within the same degree, unless the accessory himself profited from the effects or proceeds of the crime or assisted the offender to profit therefrom.
Presidential Decree 532 (Anti-piracy and Highway Robbery law of 1974) If the crime was piracy or brigandage under PD 532, said act constitutes the crime of abetting piracy or abetting brigandage as the case may be, although the penalty is that of an accomplice, not just an accessory, to the piracy or the brigandage. Section 4 of PD 532 provides that any person who knowingly and in any manner acquires or receives property taken by such pirates or brigands or in any manner derives benefit therefrom, shall be considered as an accomplice of the principal offenders in accordance with the Rules prescribed by the Revised Penal Code. It shall be presumed that any person who does any acts provided in this section has performed them knowingly, unless the contrary is proven.
In the preceding illustration, the aunt is not criminally liable under the Revised Penal Code because the crime is kidnapping, but she can be held liable under PD 1829. PD 1829 (Also Known as the Law Penalizing Obstruction of Justice) No specification of the crime to be committed by the offender in order that criminal liability be incurred The offender need not even be the principal or need not be convicted of the crime charged An offender of any crime is no longer an accessory but is simply an offender without regard to the crime of the person assisted to escape
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Revised Penal Code Specifies the crimes that should be committed in case a civilian aids in the escape The offender is the principal or must be convicted of the crime charged The one who harbored or concealed an offender is still an accessory
5.
Whether the accomplice and the accessory may be tried and convicted even before the principal is found guilty
Illustration: a. Crime committed is kidnapping for ransom of his employer. Principal was being chased by police. b. His aunt hid him in the ceiling of her house and she told the soldiers that her nephew had never visited her. When the soldiers left, the aunt even gave money to her nephew for the latter to go to the province. c. Is the aunt criminally liable? No. Article 20 does not include an aunt. However, this is not the reason. d. The principal must have committed either treason, parricide, murder, or attempt on the life of the Chief Executive, or that the principal is known to be habitually guilty of some other crime, e. for a person who is not a public officer and who assists an offender to escape or otherwise harbors, or conceals such offender, to be criminally liable.
There is an earlier Supreme Court ruling that the accessory and accomplice must be charged together with the principal; if the latter is acquitted, the accomplice and the accessory shall not be criminally liable, unless the acquittal is based on a defense which is personal only to the principal. However, it is not always true that the accomplice and the accessory cannot be criminally liable without the principal being first convicted. Under Rule 110 of the Revised Rules on Criminal Procedure, it is required that all those involved in the commission of the crime must be included in the information that may be filed. The liability of the accused will depend on the quantum of evidence adduced by the prosecution against the particular accused but the prosecution must initiate the proceedings against the principal. Even if the principal is convicted, if the evidence presented against a supposed accomplice or accessory does not meet the required proof beyond reasonable doubt, then said accused will be acquitted. So the criminal liability of an accomplice or accessory does not depend on the criminal liability of the principal but depends on the quantum of evidence.
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e)
f)
g)
h)
i)
Decree Penalizing Obstruction Apprehension and Prosecution Criminal Offenders (P.D. 1829)
of of
What is imposed: Prision correccional in its maximum period, or Fine ranging from PhP 1,000 6,000, or Both Upon any person who knowingly or willfully obstructs, impedes, frustrates or delays the apprehension of suspects and the investigation and prosecution of criminal cases through the acts enumerated in Sec. 1
ii. Compare with Article 20, RPC (accessories exempt from criminal liability)
Art. 20. Accessories who are exempt from criminal liability The penalties prescribed for accessories shall not be imposed upon those who are such with respect to their spouses, ascendants, descendants, legitimate, natural, and adopted brothers and sisters, or relatives by affinity within the same degrees, with the single exception of accessories falling within the provisions of paragraph 1 of the next preceding article. Ground for exemption under Art. 20 Based on ties of blood and the preservation of the cleanliness of ones name, which compels one to conceal crimes committed by relatives so near as those mentioned. Accessory is not exempt from criminal liability even if the principal is related to him if he a) profited by the effects of the crime, or b) assisted the offender to profit by the effect of the crime. The punishable acts in PD 1829, compared to RPC Art. 20, are prompted by a detestable greed, not by affection.
b)
c)
d)
CHAPTER V. PENALTIES
A. B. C. GENERAL PRINCIPLES PENALTIES WHICH MAY BE IMPOSED SPECIFIC PRINCIPAL AND ACCESSORY PENALTIES D. ACCESSORY PENALTIES E. MEASURES NOT CONSIDERED PENALTY F. APPLICATION AND COMPUTATION OF PENALTIES G. SPECIAL RULES FOR CERTAIN SITUATIONS H. EXECUTION AND SERVICE OF PENALTIES. PENALTY is the suffering that is inflicted by the State for the transgression of a law. Different Juridical Conditions of Penalty: 1. Must be PRODUCTIVE OF SUFFERING, without affecting the integrity of the human personality. 2. Must be COMMENSURATE to the offense different crimes must be punished with different penalties. 3. Must be PERSONAL no one should be punished for the crime of another. 4. Must be LEGAL it is the consequence of a judgment according to law. 5. Must be CERTAIN no one may escape its effects. 6. Must be EQUAL for all. 7. Must be CORRECTIONAL. Theories justifying penalty: 1. PREVENTION to suppress danger to the State 2. SELF-DEFENSE to protect the society from the threat and wrong inflicted by the criminal. 3. REFORMATION to correct and reform the offender. 4. EXEMPLARITY to serve as an example to deter others from committing crimes. 5. JUSTICE for retributive justice, a vindication of absolute right and moral law violated by the criminal.
Act Prohibiting the Imposition of Death Penalty in the Philippines (R.A. 9346)
RA 9346 or An Act Prohibiting the Imposition of Death Penalty in the Philippines Expressly repealed RA 8177 or Act Designating Death by Lethal Injection and RA 7659 or Death Penalty Law RA 9346 repealed all the other laws imposing death penalty. Section 2 states that: In lieu of the death penalty, the following shall be imposed: a. the penalty of reclusion perpetua, when the law violated makes use of the nomenclature of the penalties of the Revised Penal Code; or b. the penalty of life imprisonment, when the law violated does not make use of the nomenclature of the penalties of the Revised Penal Code. People v. Bon (2006): Yet in truth, there is no material difference between imposition and application, for both terms embody the operation in law of the death penalty. Since Article 71 denominates death as an element in the graduated scale of penalties, there is no question that the operation of Article 71 involves the actual application of the death penalty as a means of determining the extent which a persons liberty is to be deprived. Since Rep. Act No. 9346 unequivocally bars the application of the death penalty, as well as expressly repeals all such statutory provisions requiring the application of the death penalty, such effect necessarily extends to its relevance to the graduated scale of penalties under Article 71. The court cannot find basis to conclude that Rep. Act No. 9346 intended to retain the operative effects of the death penalty in the graduation of the other penalties in our penal laws. Munoz cannot enjoin us to adopt such conclusion. Rep. Act No. 9346 is not swaddled in the same restraints appreciated by Muoz on Section 19(1), Article III. The very Congress empowered by the Constitution to reinstate the imposition of the death penalty once thought it best to do so, through Rep. Act No. 7650. Within the same realm of constitutional discretion, Congress has reversed itself. It must be asserted that today, the legal status of the suppression of the death penalty in the Philippines has never been more secure than at any time in our political history as a nation.
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A. General Principles
Art. 21. Penalties that may be imposed. No felony shall be punishable by any penalty not prescribed by law prior to its commission. This article prohibits the Government from punishing any person for any felony with any penalty which has not been prescribed by the law. It has no application to any of the provisions of the RPC for the reason that for every felony defined in the Code, a penalty has been prescribed. REASON: An act or omission cannot be punished by the State if at the time it was committed there was no law prohibiting it, because a law cannot be rationally obeyed unless it is first shown, and a man cannot be expected to obey an order that has not been given.
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1. Purposes
Purpose of penalty under the RPC: 1. RETRIBUTION OR EXPIATION the penalty is commensurate with the gravity of the offense. It permits society to exact proportionate revenge, and the offender to atone for his wrongs. 2. CORRECTION OR REFORMATION as shown by the rules which regulate the execution of the penalties consisting in deprivation of liberty. 3. SOCIAL DEFENSE shown by its inflexible severity to recidivist and habitual delinquents.
c. According to their gravity (1) Capital (2) Afflictive (3) Correctional (4) Light
Note: Public censure is a penalty, Thus, it is not proper in acquittal. However, the Court in acquitting the accused may criticize his acts or conduct. Penalties that are either principal or accessory: Perpetual or temporary absolute disqualification, Perpetual or temporary special disqualification, and Suspension o May be principal or accessory penalties, because they are formed in the 2 general classes. (Asked 3 times in the Bar Exams)
c.
LIFE IMPRISONMENT Imposed for serious offenses penalized by special laws Does not carry with it accessory penalties Does not appear to have any definite extent or duration
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Carries with it accessory penalties Entails imprisonment for at least 30 years after which the convict becomes eligible for pardon although the maximum period shall in no case exceed 40 years
The following table also contains DISQUALIFICATION as an afflictive penalty, because its different forms can also be imposed as a principal although it is primarily categorized as an accessory penalty.
PENALTY Death (REPEALED) Death, when not executed due to pardon or commutation (REPEALED) Reclusion perpetua
ACCESSORIES
(1) PAD (2) Civil interdiction 30 yrs from sentence 20 years & 1 day to 40 years (Indivisible) (1) Deprivation of public office, even if by election (2) Deprivation of right to vote & be voted for (3) Disqualification from public office held (4) Loss of retirement rights (1) Deprivation of office, employment, profession, or calling affected (2) Disqualification from similar offices or employments (1) PAD (2) Civil interdiction for duration of sentence (1) TAD (2) PSD of suffrage (1) Deprivation of public office, even if by election (2) Deprivation of right to vote & be voted for during sentence (3) Disqualification from public office held during sentence (4) Loss of retirement rights (1) Deprivation of office, employment, profession, or calling affected (2) Disqualification from (1) PAD (2) Civil interdiction for life
For life
For life
absolute
special
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C. Specific Principal And Accessory Penalties 1. Afflictive penalties
Art. 27. a. Reclusion perpetua. Any person sentenced to any of the perpetual penalties shall be pardoned after undergoing the penalty for thirty years, unless such person by reason of his conduct or some other serious cause shall be considered by the Chief Executive as unworthy of pardon. b. Reclusion temporal. The penalty of reclusion temporal shall be from twelve years and one day to twenty years. c. Prision mayor and temporary disqualification. The duration of the penalties of prision mayor and temporary disqualification shall be from six years and one day to twelve years, except when the penalty of disqualification is imposed as an accessory penalty, in which case its duration shall be that of the principal penalty. Art. 41. Reclusion perpetua and temporal; Their accessory penalties: reclusion
People v. Gatward (1997): Held: As amended by RA 7659, the penalty of reclusion perpetua is now accorded a defined duration ranging from 20 years and 1 day to 40 years. The Court held that in spite of the amendment putting the duration of RP, it should remain as an indivisible penalty since there was never intent on the part of Congress to reclassify it into a divisible penalty. The maximum duration of reclusion perpetua is not and has never been 30 years which is merely the number of years which the convict must serve in order to be eligible for pardon or for the application of the 3-fold rule (infra).
People v. Ramirez (2001): The SC disagrees with the trial court in sentencing appellant "to suffer imprisonment of forty (40) years reclusion perpetua." There was no justification or need for the trial court to specify the length of imprisonment, because reclusion perpetua is an indivisible penalty. The significance of this fundamental principle was laid down by the Court in People v. Diquit. "Since reclusion perpetua is an indivisible penalty, it has no minimum, medium or maximum periods. It is imposed in its entirety regardless of any mitigating or aggravating circumstances that may have attended the commission of the crime. (Art. 63, Revised Penal Code) Reclusion Perpetua is imprisonment for life but the person sentenced to suffer it shall be pardoned after undergoing the penalty for thirty (30) years, unless by reason of his conduct or some other serious cause, he shall be considered by the Chief Executive as unworthy of pardon (Art. 27, Revised Penal Code)." Distinguished from Life Imprisonment (ASKED 5 TIMES IN THE BAR EXAMS) People v. Ballabare (1996): The trial court erred in imposing the penalty of life imprisonment for violation of PD 1866. The crime of illegal possession of firearm in its aggravated form is punished by the penalty of death. Since the offense was committed on Sep. 16, 1990, at a time when the imposition of the death penalty was prohibited, the penalty next lower in degree
The penalties of reclusion perpetua and reclusion temporal shall carry with them that of civil interdiction for life or during the period of the sentence as the case may be, and that of perpetual absolute disqualification which the offender shall suffer even though pardoned as to the principal penalty, unless the same shall have been expressly remitted in the pardon. Art. 42. Prision mayor; Its accessory penalties: The penalty of prision mayor, shall carry with it that of temporary absolute disqualification and that of perpetual special disqualification from the right of suffrage which the offender shall suffer although pardoned as to the principal penalty, unless the same shall have been expressly remitted in the pardon.
1. Reclusion Perpetua
Duration: 20 years and 1 day to 40 years Accessory Penalties: (1) Civil interdiction for life or during the period of the sentence as the case may be. (2) Perpetual Absolute Disqualification which the offender shall suffer even though pardoned as to the principal penalty, unless the same shall have been expressly remitted in the pardon.
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2. Reclusion Temporal
Duration: 12 years and 1 day to 20 years Accessory Penalties: (1) Civil interdiction for life or during the period of the sentence as the case may be. (2) Perpetual Absolute Disqualification which the offender shall suffer even though pardoned as to the principal penalty, unless the same shall have been expressly remitted in the pardon.
3)
4)
3. Prision mayor
Duration: 6 years and 1 day to 12 years Accessory Penalties: (1) Temporary Absolute Disqualification (2) Perpetual Special Disqualification from the right to suffrage which the offender shall suffer although pardoned as to the principal penalty unless the same shall have been expressly remitted in the pardon. 5)
1. Correctional penalties
Art. 27 (4). Prision correccional, suspension, and destierro. 1) The duration of the penalties of prision correccional, suspension and destierro 2) shall be from six months and one day to six years, 3) except when suspension is imposed as an accessory penalty, 4) in which case, its duration shall be that of the principal penalty. Arresto mayor. The duration of the penalty of arresto mayor shall be from one month and one day to six months. Art. 39. Subsidiary penalty. If the convict has no property with which to meet the fine mentioned in the paragraph 3 of the next preceding article, he shall be subject to a subsidiary personal liability at the rate of one day for each eight pesos, subject to the following rules: 1) If the principal penalty imposed be prision correccional or arresto and fine, he shall remain under confinement until his fine referred to in the preceding paragraph is satisfied, but his subsidiary imprisonment shall not exceed one-third of the term of the sentence, and in no case shall it continue for more than one year, and no fraction or part of a day shall be counted against the prisoner.
(Asked 2 times in the Bar Exams) Art. 43. Prision correccional; Its accessory penalties. The penalty of prision correccional shall carry with it that of suspension from public office, from the right to follow a profession or calling, and that of perpetual special disqualification from the right of suffrage, if the duration of said imprisonment shall exceed eighteen months. The offender shall suffer the disqualification provided in the article although pardoned as to the principal penalty, unless the same shall have been expressly remitted in the pardon. Art. 44. Arresto; Its accessory penalties. The penalty of arresto shall carry with it that of suspension of the right to hold office and the right of suffrage during the term of the sentence.
1. Prision Correccional
Duration: 6 months and 1 day to 6 years Accessory Penalties: (1) Suspension from public office (2) Suspension from the right to follow a profession or calling (3) Perpetual Special Disqualification for the right of suffrage, if the duration of the imprisonment shall exceed 18 months
2. Arresto Mayor
Duration: 1 month and 1 day to 6 months Accessory Penalties:
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PENALTY DURATION
Prision correccional
Suspension
Destierro
Arresto mayor
3. Light penalties
Art. 27 (6). Arresto menor. The duration of the penalty of arresto menor shall be from one day to thirty days. Art. 39. Subsidiary penalty. If the convict has no property with which to meet the fine mentioned in the paragraph 3 of the next preceding article, he shall be subject to a subsidiary personal liability at the rate of one day for each eight pesos, subject to the following rules: 6) If the principal penalty imposed be prision correccional or arresto and fine, he shall remain under confinement until his fine referred to in the preceding paragraph is satisfied, but his subsidiary imprisonment shall not exceed one-third of the term of the sentence, and in no case shall it continue for more than one year, and no fraction or part of a day shall be counted against the prisoner. When the principal penalty imposed be only a fine, the subsidiary imprisonment shall not exceed six months, if the culprit shall have been prosecuted for a grave or less grave felony, and shall not exceed fifteen days, if for a light felony. When the principal imposed is higher than prision correccional, no subsidiary imprisonment shall be imposed upon the culprit. If the principal penalty imposed is not to be executed by confinement in a penal institution, but such penalty is of fixed duration, the convict, during the period of time established in the preceding rules, shall continue to suffer the same deprivations as those of which the principal penalty consists.
(2) Suspension of the right of suffrage during the term of the sentence.
2. Public Censure
Censure, being a penalty is not proper in acquittal.
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1. Fine
Art. 26. When afflictive, correctional, or light penalty. 1) A fine, whether imposed as a single or as an alternative penalty, 2) shall be considered an afflictive penalty, if it exceeds 6,000 pesos; 3) a correctional penalty, if it does not exceed 6,000 pesos but is not less than 200 pesos; 4) and a light penalty if it less than 200 pesos. This article merely classifies fine and has nothing to do with the definition of light felony. Fine is: Afflictive more thanP6,000 Correctional P200 to P6,000 Light Penalty less than P200 Art. 66. Imposition of fines. In imposing fines the courts may fix any amount within the limits established by law; in fixing the amount in each case attention shall be given, not only to the mitigating and aggravating circumstances, but more particularly to the wealth or means of the culprit. The court can fix any amount of the fine within the limits established by law. The court must consider: The mitigating and aggravating circumstances; and More particularly, the wealth or means of the culprit. When the law does not fix the minimum of the fine, the determination of the amount of the fine to be imposed upon the culprit is left to the sound discretion of the court, provided it shall not exceed the maximum authorized by law. Fines are not divided into 3 equal portions.
7)
8)
9)
10) The subsidiary personal liability which the convict may have suffered by reason of his insolvency shall not relieve him, from the fine in case his financial circumstances should improve. (As amended by RA 5465, April 21, 1969).
Art. 44. Arresto; Its accessory penalties. The penalty of arresto shall carry with it that of suspension of the right too hold office and the right of suffrage during the term of the sentence.
1. Arresto Menor
Duration: 1 day to 30 days Accessory Penalties: (1) Suspension of right to hold office
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2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Should the person sentenced fail to give the bond as required he shall be detained for a period which shall in no case exceed six months, is he shall have been prosecuted for a grave or less grave felony, and shall not exceed thirty days, if for a light felony. 2 WAYS OF GIVING BOND: a. The offender must present 2 sufficient sureties who shall undertake that o the offender will not commit the offense sought to be prevented, o and that in case such offense be committed they will pay the amount determined by the court; The offender must deposit such amount with the clerk of court to guarantee said undertaking; The court shall determine the period of duration of the bond. The offender may be detained, if he cannot give the bond, for a period not to exceed 6 months if prosecuted for grave or less grave felony, or for a period not to exceed 30 days, if for a light felony. Bond to keep the peace is different from bail bond which is posted for the provisional release of a person arrested for or accused of a crime. PENALTY Arresto menor Public censure (Penalties Common to All Three Types) PENALTY DURATION ACCESSORIES Fine Bond to keep As determined the peace by the court DURATION 1 day to 30 days ACCESSORIES Suspension of right to hold office and right of suffrage
b.
4)
Effects: (1) Deprivation of any public office or employment of offender; (2) Deprivation of the right to vote in any election or to be voted upon; (3) Loss of rights to retirement pay or pension Note: Perpetual absolute disqualification is effective during the lifetime of the convict and even after the service of the sentence. Temporary absolute disqualification lasts during the term of the sentence except (1) deprivation of the public office or employment; and (2) loss of all rights to retirement pay or other pension for any office formerly held. (See Art. 30, par. 3). Art. 32. Effect of the penalties of perpetual or temporary special disqualification for the exercise of the right of suffrage. (1) The perpetual or temporary special disqualification for the exercise of the right of suffrage (2) shall deprive the offender perpetually or during the term of the sentence, according to the nature of said penalty, (3) of the right to vote in any popular election for any public office or to be elected to such office. (4) Moreover, the offender shall not be permitted to hold any public office during the period of his disqualification.
D. Accessory penalties
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4. Civil Interdiction
Effects: Deprivation of the following rights: (1) Parental authority (2) Guardianship over the ward (3) Marital authority (4) Right to manage property and to dispose of the same by acts inter vivos. (Note: The convict can still dispose his property mortis causa). Civil interdiction is an accessory penalty to the following principal penalties: (1) Death if commuted to life imprisonment; (2) Reclusion perpetua (3) Reclusion temporal
5. Indemnification or Confiscation of
This is included in every penalty for the commission of the crime. The confiscation is in favor of the government. Property of a third person not liable for the offense is not subject to confiscation. If the trial court did not order confiscation of the process of the crime, government cannot appeal from confiscation as that would increase penalty already imposed. any the the the
6. Payment of Costs
Includes: (1) Fees, and (2) Indemnities, proceedings.
in
the
course
of
judicial
Costs may be fixed amounts already determined by law or regulations or amounts subject to a schedule.
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ACCESSORY PENALTY
Suspension from Public Office, the Right to Vote and Be Voted for, the Right to Practice a Profession or Calling
Civil Interdiction
or of or the
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F. Application
1. Indeterminate Sentence Law 2. Three-fold Rule 3. Subsidiary Imprisonment General Rules Art. 5. Duty of the court in connection with acts which should be repressed but which are not covered by the law, and in cases of excessive penalties. Whenever a court has knowledge of any act which it may deem proper to repress and which is not punishable by law, it shall render the proper decision, and shall report to the Chief Executive, through the Department of Justice, the reasons which induce the court to believe that said act should be made the subject of legislation. In the same way, the court shall submit to the Chief Executive, through the Department of Justice, such statement as may be deemed proper, without suspending the execution of the sentence, when a strict enforcement of the provisions of this Code would result in the imposition of a clearly excessive penalty, taking into consideration the degree of malice and the injury caused by the offense. In case of excessive penalties, the court must still impose the penalty but it shall recommend reduction, commutation, or other actions to the Chief Executive. Art. 21. Penalties that may be imposed. No felony shall be punishable by any penalty not prescribed by law prior to its commission. Nulla poena sine lege. This article prohibits the Government from imposing punishment to any person for a felony with any penalty which has not been prescribed by the law. In addition, penalties must be individual, i.e., not shared, and definite, e.g., imprisonment, fine, imprisonment and fine, imprisonment or fine; but not imprisonment and/or fine. Art. 28. Computation of penalties. If the offender shall be in prison, the term of the duration of the temporary penalties shall be computed from the day on which the judgment of conviction shall have become final. If the offender be not in prison,
Art. 29. Period of preventive imprisonment deducted from term of imprisonment. Offenders who have undergone preventive imprisonment shall be credited in the service of their sentence consisting of deprivation of liberty, with the full time during which they have undergone preventive imprisonment, if the detention prisoner agrees voluntarily in writing to abide by the same disciplinary rules imposed upon convicted prisoners, except in the following cases: a. When they are recidivists or have been convicted previously twice or more times of any crime; and
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If the detention prisoner does not agree to abide by the same disciplinary rules imposed upon convicted prisoners, he shall be credited in the service of his sentence with four-fifths of the time during which he has undergone preventive imprisonment. (As amended by Republic Act 6127, June 17, 1970). Whenever an accused has undergone preventive imprisonment for a period equal to or more than the possible maximum imprisonment of the offense charged to which he may be sentenced and his case is not yet terminated, he shall be released immediately without prejudice to the continuation of the trial thereof or the proceeding on appeal, if the same is under review. In case the maximum penalty to which the accused may be sentenced is destierro, he shall be released after thirty (30) days of preventive imprisonment. (As amended by E.O. No. 214, July 10, 1988). The accused undergoes preventive imprisonment when the offense charged is nonbailable, or even if bailable, he cannot furnish the required bail. The convict is to be released immediately if the penalty imposed after trial is less than the full time or four-fifths of the time of the preventive imprisonment. The accused shall be released immediately whenever he has undergone preventive imprisonment for a period equal to or more than the possible maximum imprisonment for the offense charged. (Asked 4 times in the Bar Exams)
b. Coverage
The law does not apply to certain offenders: (1) Persons convicted of offense punished with death penalty or life imprisonment (or reclusion perpetua). (2) Those convicted of treason, conspiracy or proposal to commit treason. (3) Those convicted of misprision of treason, rebellion, sedition or espionage. (4) Those convicted of piracy. (5) Those who are habitual delinquents (but applies to recidivists). (6) Those who shall have escaped from confinement or evaded service of sentence. (7) Those who violated the terms of conditional pardon granted to them by the Chief Executive. (8) Those whose maximum term of imprisonment does not exceed one year. (9) Those who, upon the approval of the law, had been sentenced by final judgment.
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c. Conditions of parole
Section 6: Duty of the prisoner released under this Code: Report personally to such government officials or other parole officers appointed by the Board for a period of surveillance equivalent to the remaining portion of the maximum sentence imposed upon him or until final release by the Board. If it is shown that he is a law-abiding citizen and did not violate any laws of the country, the Board may issue a final certificate of release which will entitle him to final release and discharge.
Section 8: Violations of the conditions of the parole: If he/she violates any of the conditions of the parole, the Board may issue his warrant of arrest. If captured/arrested, he shall serve the remaining unexpired portion of the maximum sentence for which he was originally committed unless a new parole was granted.
Three-fold Rule:
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3. Subsidiary imprisonment
Art. 38. Pecuniary liabilities; Order of payment. In case the property of the offender should not be sufficient for the payment of all his pecuniary liabilities, the same shall be met in the following order: 1. 2. 3. 4. The reparation of the damage caused. Indemnification of consequential damages. The fine. The cost of the proceedings.
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(2) 1) If the principal penalty imposed be prision correccional or arresto and fine, he shall remain under confinement until his fine referred to in the preceding paragraph is satisfied, but his subsidiary imprisonment shall not exceed one-third of the term of the sentence, and in no case shall it continue for more than one year, and no fraction or part of a day shall be counted against the prisoner. When the principal penalty imposed be only a fine, the subsidiary imprisonment shall not exceed six months, if the culprit shall have been prosecuted for a grave or less grave felony, and shall not exceed fifteen days, if for a light felony. When the principal imposed is higher than prision correccional, no subsidiary imprisonment shall be imposed upon the culprit. If the principal penalty imposed is not to be executed by confinement in a penal institution, but such penalty is of fixed duration, the convict, during the period of time established in the preceding rules, shall continue to suffer the same deprivations as those of which the principal penalty consists. The subsidiary personal liability which the convict may have suffered by reason of his insolvency shall not relieve him, from the fine in case his financial circumstances should improve. (As amended by RA 5465, April 21, 1969).
(3) (4)
2)
(5)
3)
4)
No subsidiary penalty in the following cases: (1) When the penalty imposed is higher than prision correccional. (Art. 39 par. (2) For failure to pay the reparation of the damage caused, indemnification of the consequential damages, and the costs of the proceedings. (3) When the penalty imposed is fine and a penalty not to be executed by confinement in a penal institution and which has no fixed duration. Art. 46. Penalty to be imposed upon principals in general. The penalty prescribed by law for the commission of a felony shall be imposed upon the principals in the commission of such felony. Whenever the law prescribes a penalty for a felony is general terms, it shall be understood as applicable to the consummated felony. GENERAL RULE: The penalty prescribed by law in general terms shall be imposed: Upon the principals For consummated felony EXCEPTION: The exception is when the penalty to be imposed upon the principal in frustrated or attempted felony is fixed by law. Whenever it is believed that the penalty lower by one or two degrees corresponding to said acts of execution is not in proportion to the wrong done, the law fixes a distinct penalty for the principal in frustrated or attempted felony. There are two ways to graduate penalties: 1. By Degrees, which is affected by the following factors: a. Stage of Execution (consummated, frustrated, or attempted) b. Extent of Participation (principal, accomplice, or accessory) c. Privileged mitigating circumstances d. Qualifying circumstances
5)
Subsidiary penalty it is personal liability to be suffered by the convict who has no property with which to meet the fine at the rate of one day for each P8, subject to the rules provided for in Articles 39. An accused cannot be made to undergo subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency to pay the fine imposed upon him when the subsidiary imprisonment is not imposed in the judgment of conviction. (Ramos v. Gonong) A convict who has property not exempt from execution sufficient enough to meet the fine cannot choose to serve the subsidiary penalty. Subsidiary imprisonment is not an accessory penalty. Rules as to subsidiary imprisonment: (1) If the penalty imposed is prision correcccional or arresto and fine subsidiary imprisonment not to exceed 1/3 of the term of the sentence, and in no case to continue for more
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2.
By Periods (for divisible penalties, i.e., penalties with minimum, medium, and maximum periods), which is affected by the attendant ordinary mitigating/aggravating circumstances
Principals, Accomplices and Accessories in Consummated, Frustrated and Attempted Felonies. Art. 46. Penalty to be imposed upon principals in general. The penalty prescribed by law for the commission of a felony shall be imposed upon the principals in the commission of such felony. Whenever the law prescribes a penalty for a felony is general terms, it shall be understood as applicable to the consummated felony. Art. 50. Penalty to be imposed upon principals of a frustrated crime. The penalty next lower in degree than that prescribed by law for the consummated felony shall be imposed upon the principal in a frustrated felony. Art. 51. Penalty to be imposed upon principals of attempted crimes. A penalty lower by two degrees than that prescribed by law for the consummated felony shall be imposed upon the principals in an attempt to commit a felony. Art. 52. Penalty to be imposed upon accomplices in consummated crime. The penalty next lower in degree than that prescribed by law for the consummated shall be imposed upon the accomplices in the commission of a consummated felony. Art. 53. Penalty to be imposed upon accessories to the commission of a consummated felony. The penalty lower by two degrees than that prescribed by law for the consummated felony shall be imposed upon the accessories to the commission of a consummated felony. Art. 54. Penalty to imposed upon accomplices in a frustrated crime. The penalty next lower in degree than prescribed by law for the frustrated felony shall be imposed upon the accomplices in the commission of a frustrated felony. Art. 55. Penalty to be imposed upon accessories of a frustrated crime. The penalty lower by two degrees than that prescribed by law for the frustrated felony shall be
FRUSTRATED
1 2
1 2 3 2 3 4
0 represents the penalty prescribed by law in defining a crime, which is to be imposed on the PRINCIPAL in a CONSUMMATED OFFENSE, in accordance with the provisions of Art. 46. The other figures represent the degrees to which the penalty must be lowered, to meet the different situations anticipated by law. EXCEPTIONS: Arts. 50 to 57 shall not apply to cases where the law expressly prescribes the penalty for frustrated or attempted felony, or to be imposed upon accomplices or accessories. (Art. 60). Art. 60. Exception to the rules established in Articles 50 to 57. The provisions contained in Articles 50 to 57, inclusive, of this Code shall not be applicable to cases in which the law expressly prescribes the penalty provided for a frustrated or attempted felony, or to be imposed upon accomplices or accessories. A DEGREE is one entire penalty, one whole penalty or one unit of the penalties enumerated in the graduated scales provided for in Art. 71. Each of the penalties of reclusion perpetua, reclusion temporal, prision mayor, etc., enumerated in the graduated scales of Art. 71 is a degree.
ATTEMPTED
CONSUMMATED
100
3)
4)
5)
This article provides for the rules to be observed in lowering the penalty by one or two degrees: For the principal in frustrated felony one degree lower; For the principal in attempted felony two degrees lower; For the accomplice in consummated felony one degree lower; and For the accessory in consummated felony two degrees lower. The rules provided for in Art. 61 should also apply in determining the MINIMUM of the indeterminate penalty under the Indeterminate Sentence Law. The MINIMUM of the indeterminate penalty is within the range of the penalty next lower than that prescribed by the RPC for the offense. Those rules also apply in lowering the penalty by one or two degrees by reason of the presence of privileged mitigating circumstance (Arts. 68 and 69), or when the penalty is divisible and there are two or more mitigating circumstances (generic) and no aggravating circumstance (Art. 64). The lower penalty shall be taken from the graduated scale in Art. 71. The (1) (2) (3) INDIVISIBLE PENALTIES are: death reclusion perpetua public censure
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The divisible penalties are divided into three periods: MINIMUM, MEDIUM AND THE MAXIMUM FIRST RULE: When the penalty is single and indivisible. Ex. reclusion perpetua The penalty immediately following it is reclusion temporal. Thus, reclusion temporal is the penalty next lower in degree. SECOND RULE (a): When the penalty is composed of two indivisible penalties Ex. reclusion perpetua to death The penalty immediately following the lesser of the penalties, which is reclusion perpetua, is reclusion temporal. SECOND RULE (b): When the penalty is composed of one or more divisible penalties to be imposed to their full extent Ex. prision correccional to prision mayor The penalty immediately following the lesser of the penalties of prision correccional to prision mayor is arresto mayor. THIRD RULE (a): When the penalty is composed of two indivisible penalties and the maximum period of a divisible penalty Ex. reclusion temporal in its MAXIMUM period to death The MEDIUM and MINIMUM period of the divisible penalty and the MAXIMUM of that immediately following penalty is the penalty next lower in degree. Death Reclusion Perpetua Reclusion Temporal Prision Mayor Maximum Medium Minimum Maximum Medium Minimum Penalty for the principal in consummated murder Penalty for accomplice; or for principal in frustrated murder
Penalty for the principal in the consummated felony Penalty for the accomplice; or principal in frustrated felony
THIRD RULE (b): When the penalty is composed of one indivisible penalty and the maximum period of a divisible penalty. Ex. Reclusion temporal in its MAXIMUM period to Reclusion perpetua The same rule shall be observed in lowering the penalty by one or two degrees. FOURTH RULE: When the penalty is composed of several periods.
Art. 62. Effect of the attendance of mitigating or aggravating circumstances and of habitual delinquency.
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2)
3)
What are the legal effects of habitual delinquency? Third conviction. The culprit is sentenced to the penalty for the crime committed and to the additional penalty of prision correccional in its medium and maximum period. Fourth conviction. The penalty is that provided by law for the last crime and the additional penalty of prision mayor in its minimum and medium periods. Fifth or additional conviction. The penalty is that provided by law for the last crime and the additional penalty of prision mayor in its maximum period to reclusion temporal in its minimum period. Note: In no case shall the total of the 2 penalties imposed upon the offender exceed 30 years. The law does not apply to crimes described in Art. 155. The imposition of the additional penalty on habitual delinquents are CONSTITUTIONAL because such law is neither an EX POST FACTO LAW nor an additional punishment for future crimes. It is simply a punishment on future crimes on account of the criminal propensities of the accused. The imposition of such additional penalties is mandatory and is not discretionary. Habitual delinquency applies at any stage of the execution because subjectively, the offender reveals the same degree of depravity or perversity as the one who commits a consummated crime. It applies to all participants because it reveals persistence in them of the inclination to wrongdoing and of the perversity of character that led them to commit the previous crime. Cases where attending aggravating or mitigating circumstances are not considered in the imposition of penalties 1) Penalty that is single and indivisible 2) Felonies through negligence 3) When the penalty is a fine 4) When the penalty is prescribed by a special law.
Art. 64. Rules for the application of penalties which contain three periods. 1) In cases in which the penalties prescribed by law contain three periods, 2) whether it be a single divisible penalty or composed of three different penalties, 3) each one of which forms a period in accordance with the provisions of Articles 76 and 77, 4) the court shall observe for the application of the penalty the following rules, according to whether there are or are not mitigating or aggravating circumstances: i. When there are neither aggravating nor mitigating circumstances, they shall impose the penalty prescribed by law in its medium period. ii. When only a mitigating circumstances is present in the commission of the act, they shall impose the penalty in its minimum period. iii. When an aggravating circumstance is present in the commission of the act, they shall impose the penalty in its maximum period. iv. When both mitigating and aggravating circumstances are present, the court shall reasonably offset those of one class against the other according to their relative weight. v. When there are two or more mitigating circumstances and no aggravating circumstances are present, the court shall impose the penalty next lower to that prescribed by law, in the period that it may deem applicable, according to the number and nature of such circumstances. vi. Whatever may be the number and nature of the aggravating circumstances, the courts shall not impose a greater penalty than that prescribed by law, in its maximum period. vii. Within the limits of each period, the court shall determine the extent of the penalty according to the number and nature of the aggravating and mitigating circumstances and the greater and lesser extent of the evil produced by the crime. Rules for the application of DIVISIBLE PENALTIES 1) No aggravating and No mitigating: MEDIUM PERIOD 2) One mitigating: MINIMUM PERIOD 3) One aggravating: (but regardless of the number of aggravating circumstances, the courts cannot exceed the penalty provided by law in its maximum period): MAXIMUM PERIOD 4) Mitigating and aggravating circumstances present: to offset each other according to relative weight 5) 2 or more mitigating and no aggravating:
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1. Complex Crimes
Art. 48. Penalty for complex crimes. When a single act constitutes two or more grave or less grave felonies, or when an offense is a necessary means for committing the other, the penalty for the most serious crime shall be imposed, the same to be applied in its maximum period. The rule for complex crimes is to impose the penalty for the most serious offense in its MAXIMUM period. Monteverde v. People (2002): Monteverde was purportedly charged with the complex crime of estafa through falsification of a commercial document for allegedly falsifying the document she had submitted to show that the money donated by PAGCOR was used and spent for lighting materials for her barangay. Held: Under Article 48 of the Revised Penal Code, a complex crime refers to: 1) the commission of at least two grave or less grave felonies that must both (or all) be the result of a single act, or 2) one offense must be a necessary means for committing the other (or others). Using the above guidelines, constitute a complex crime. the acts cannot
NOTE: Art. 64 does not apply to: 1) indivisible penalties 2) penalties prescribed by special laws 3) fines 4) crimes committed by negligence (Asked 3 times in the Bar Exams) Art. 67. Penalty to be imposed when not all the requisites of exemption of the fourth circumstance of Article 12 are present. When all the conditions required in circumstances Number 4 of Article 12 of this Code to exempt from criminal liability are not present, the penalty of arresto mayor in its maximum period to prision correccional in its minimum period shall be imposed upon the culprit if he shall have been guilty of a grave felony, and arresto mayor in its minimum and medium periods, if of a less grave felony. Penalty to be imposed if the requisites of accident (Art. 12 par 4) are not all present: a) GRAVE FELONY: arresto mayor maximum period to prision correccional minimum period b) LESS GRAVE FELONY: arresto mayor minimum period and medium period Art. 69. Penalty to be imposed when the crime committed is not wholly excusable. A penalty lower by one or two degrees than that prescribed by law shall be imposed if the deed is not wholly excusable by reason of the lack of some of the conditions required to justify the same or to exempt from criminal liability in the several cases mentioned in Article 11 and 12, provided that the majority of such conditions be present. The courts shall impose the penalty in the period which may be deemed proper, in view of the number and nature of the conditions of exemption present or lacking. Penalty to be imposed when the crime committed is not wholly excusable: One or two degrees lower if the majority of the conditions for justification or exemption in the cases provided in Arts. 11 and 12 are present. People v. Lacanilao (1988): Held: Incomplete fulfillment of duty is a privileged mitigating circumstance which not only cannot be offset by aggravating circumstances but also reduces the penalty by one or two degrees than that prescribed b law. The governing provision is Art. 69 of the RPC.
Specifically, the alleged actions showing falsification of a public and/or a commercial document were not necessary to commit estafa. Neither were the two crimes the result of a single act.
People v. Gonzalez (Supra): Both of the families of Andres and that of Gonzalez were on their way to the exit of the Loyola Memorial Park. Gonzales was driving with his grandson and 3 housemaids, while Andres was driving with his pregnant wife, Feliber, his 2yr old son, Kenneth, his nephew Kevin and his sister-in-law. At an intersection, their two vehicles almost collided. Gonzales continued driving while Andres tailed Gonzales vehicle and cut him off when he found the opportunity to do so, then got out of his vehicle and knocked on the appellant's car window. Heated exchange of remarks followed. On his way back to his vehicle, he met Gonzales son, Dino. Andres had a shouting match this time with Dino. Gonzales then alighted from his car and fired a single shot at the last window on the left side of Andres' vehicle at an angle away from Andres. The single bullet fired hit Kenneth, Kevin and Feliber
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People v. Comadre (2004): Robert Agbanlog, Wabe, Bullanday, Camat and The underlying philosophy of complex crimes in the Revised Penal Code, which follows the pro reo principle, is intended to favor the accused by imposing a single penalty irrespective of the crimes committed. The rationale being, that the accused who commits two crimes with single criminal impulse demonstrates lesser perversity than when the crimes are committed by different acts and several criminal resolutions. The single act by appellant of detonating a hand grenade may quantitatively constitute a cluster of several separate and distinct offenses, yet these component criminal offenses should be considered only as a single crime in law on which a single penalty is imposed because the offender was impelled by a single criminal impulse which shows his lesser degree of perversity. People v. Delos Santos (2001): Held: Considering that the incident was not a product of a malicious intent but rather the result of a single act of reckless driving, Glenn should be held guilty of the complex crime of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide with serious physical injuries and less serious physical injuries. The slight physical injuries caused by Glenn to the ten other victims through reckless imprudence, would, had they been intentional, have constituted light felonies. Being light felonies, which are not covered by Article 48, they should be treated and punished as separate
2. Crimes
Intended
Different
from
That
Art. 49. Penalty to be imposed upon the principals when the crime committed is different from that intended. In cases in which the felony committed is different from that which the offender intended to commit, the following rules shall be observed: 1. If the penalty prescribed for the felony committed be higher than that corresponding to the offense which the accused intended to commit, the penalty corresponding to the latter shall be imposed in its maximum period. 2. If the penalty prescribed for the felony committed be lower than that corresponding to the one which the accused intended to commit, the penalty for the former shall be imposed in its maximum period. 3. The rule established by the next preceding paragraph shall not be applicable if the acts committed by the guilty person shall also constitute an attempt or frustration of another crime, if the
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2)
PD No. 603. ART. 192. Suspension of Sentence and Commitment of Youthful Offender. (1) If after hearing the evidence in the proper proceedings, the court should find that the youthful offender has committed the acts charged against him (2) the court shall determine the imposable penalty, including any civil liability chargeable against him. (3) However, instead of pronouncing judgment of conviction, the court shall suspend all further proceedings and shall commit such minor to the custody or care of the Department of Social Welfare, or to any training institution (4) until he shall have reached twenty-one years of age or, for a shorter period as the court may deem proper, (5) after considering the reports and recommendations of the Department of Social Welfare or the agency or responsible individual under whose care he has been committed. The youthful offender shall be subject to visitation and supervision by a representative of the Department of Social Welfare or any duly licensed agency or such other officer as the court may designate subject to such conditions as it may prescribe. Art. 68 applies to such minor if his application for suspension of sentence is disapproved or if while in the reformatory institution he becomes incorrigible in which case he shall be returned to the court for the imposition of the proper penalty. 9 to 15 years only with discernment: at least 2 degrees lower. 15 to 18 years old: penalty next lower
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In the Matter of the petition for Habeas Corpus of Pete Lagran (2001): The accused was convicted of 3 counts of violating BP22 and was sentenced to imprisonment of 1 year for each count. He was detained on Feb. 24, 1999. On Mar. 19, 2001, he filed a petition for habeas corpus claiming he completed the service of his sentence. Citing Art. 70, RPC, he claimed that he shall serve the penalties simultaneously. Thus, there is no more legal basis for his detention. Held: Art. 70 allows simultaneous service of two or more penalties only if the nature of the penalties so permit.
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1. Probation
Law
(P.D.
968,
as
amended)
b.Purpose (Sec. 2)
1. 2. 3. Promote the correction and rehabilitation of an offender by providing him with individualized treatment Provide an opportunity for the reformation of a penitent offender which might be less probable if he were to serve a prison sentence Prevent the commission of offenses
Salgado v. CA (1990): There is no question that the decision convicting Salgado of the crime of serious physical injuries had become final and executory because the filing by respondent of an application for probation is deemed a waiver of his right to appeal. The grant of probation does not extinguish the civil liability of the offender. The order of probation with one of the conditions providing for the manner of payment of the civil liability during the period of probation did not increase or decrease the civil liability adjudged. The conditions listed under Sec. 10 of the Probation law are not exclusive. Courts are allowed to impose practically any term it chooses, the only limitation being that it does not jeopardize the constitutional rights of the accused. Office of the Court Administrator v. Librado (1996): Held: While indeed the purpose of the Probation Law is to save valuable human material, it must not be forgotten that unlike pardon probation does not obliterate the crime of which the person under probation has been convicted. The image of the judiciary is tarnished by conduct involving moral turpitude. The reform and rehabilitation of the probationer cannot justify his retention in the government service.
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d) e)
e) f) g) h) i) j) k)
an
offender
on
2.
e. Disqualified offenders
Probation under PD No. 968, as amended, is intended for offenders who are 18 years of age and above, and who are not otherwise disqualified by law. Offenders who are disqualified are those: a) Sentenced to serve a maximum imprisonment of more than six years; term of
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2. 3.
Question: Does the probation law apply to Drug Traffickers and Pushers? Answer: NO Section 24 of RA 9165 (The Dangerous Drugs Act) states that: Comprehensive
Section 24. Non-Applicability of the Probation Law for Drug Traffickers and Pushers. Any person convicted for drug trafficking or pushing under this Act, regardless of the penalty imposed by the Court, cannot avail of the privilege granted by the Probation Law or Presidential Decree No. 968, as amended. Lagrosa vs. People (2003): A person who appeals his conviction for purposes of reducing the penalty to that which is within the probationable limit may still apply for probation. (ASKED 16 TIMES IN THE BAR EXAMS)
PD 603 (Secs. 189 & 192) Child over 9 years and under 15 years of age who acted w/ discernment court shall determine imposable penalty, including any civil liability chargeable against him. However, instead of pronouncing judgment of conviction, the court, upon application of the youthful offender and if it finds that the best interest of the public as well as that of the offender will be served thereby, may suspend all further proceedings and shall commit such minor to the custody or care of the DSWD or to any training institution operated by the government, or duly licensed agencies or any other responsible person, until he shall have reached 21 years of age or, for a shorter period as the court may deem proper. RA 9344 Child above 15 years but below 18 years of age who acted with discernment shall be subjected to the appropriate proceedings in accordance with the Act. 3. Suspension of sentence
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1.
PD 603 (Sec. 193) No automatic suspension of sentence. The youthful offender should apply for a suspended sentence and it is discretionary on the court to approve the application. The order of the court denying an application for suspension of sentence shall not be appealable. RA 9344 Suspension of sentence is automatic (c) Juvenile justice and welfare system RA 9344, Sec. 4(m). Juvenile Justice and Welfare System refers to a system dealing with children at risk and children in conflict with the law, which provides child-appropriate proceedings, including programs and services for prevention, diversion, rehabilitation, re-integration and aftercare to ensure their normal growth and development. NOTE: Please refer to Title V of RA 9344 for the pertinent provisions. (Sections on: 1. Initial contact with the child 2. Diversion 3. Prosecution 4. Court proceedings 5. Confidentiality of records and proceedings) Diversion RA 9344, Sec. 4(j). Diversion refers to an alternative, child-appropriate process of determining the responsibility and treatment of a child in conflict with the law on the basis of his/her social, cultural, economic, psychological, or educational background without resulting to formal court proceedings.
2.
Exemption from criminal liability herein established does not include exemption from civil liability, which shall be enforced in accordance with existing laws. (Sec. 6, RA 9344) RA 9344 compared to PD 603 1. Minimum age of criminal responsibility PD 603 Sec. 189. EXEMPT from criminal liability: Child 9 years of age or under at time of commission of offense 9 Age of child at time of commission of offense 15 (UNLESS s/he acted with discernment RA 9344 Child under 15 years of age shall be exempt from criminal liability, regardless of whether or not s/he acted with discernment
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113
B. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Important: The Supreme Court ruled that re-election to public office is not one of the grounds by which criminal liability is extinguished. This is only true in administrative cases but not in criminal cases.
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Question: What happens when the last day of the prescriptive period falls on a Sunday or legal holiday? Answer: The information can no longer be filed on the next day as the crime has already prescribed. Prescriptive Periods of Crimes (ASKED 4 TIMES IN THE BAR EXAMS) 1) Crimes punishable by death, reclusion perpetua or reclusion temporal 2) Afflictive penalties 3) Correctional penalties Note: Those punishable by arresto mayor Note: When the penalty fixed law is a compound one 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) Libel Oral defamation and slander by deed Simple slander Grave slander Light offenses Crimes punishable by fines a) Fine is afflictive b) Fine is correctional c) Fine is light Note: Subsidiary penalty for nonpayment not considered in determining the period Note: When fine is an alternative penalty higher than the other penalty which is by imprisonment, prescription of the crime is based on the fine.
2) 3)
20 years 15 years 10 years 5 years The highest penalty shall be made a basis 1 year 6 months 2 months 6 months 2 months 15 years 10 years 2 months 4)
5)
Computation of Prescription of Penalties (Art. 93) Elements: 1. Penalty is imposed by final judgment 2. Convict evaded service of sentence by escaping during the term of his sentence 3. The convict who has escaped from prison has not given himself up, or been captured, or gone to a foreign country with which we have no extradition treaty, or committed another crime 4. The penalty has prescribed because of the lapse of time from the date of the evasion of service of the sentence by the convict. Period commences to run from the date when he culprit evaded18 the service of sentence When interrupted: Convict gives himself up Is captured Goes to a foreign country with which we have no extradition treaty
Prescriptive periods under special laws and municipal ordinances (Act 3763, amending Act 3326) Offenses punished only by fine or imprisonment for not more than one 1 year month or both Imprisonment for more than one 4 years month, but less than two years Imprisonment for two years but less 8 years than six years Imprisonment for six years or more 12 years Offenses under Internal Revenue Law 5 years Violations of municipal ordinances 2 months Violations of the regulations or conditions of certificate of 2 months convenience by the Public Service Commission *Not applicable where the special law provides for its own prescriptive period Computation of Prescription of Offenses (Art. 91)
18
"Escape" in legal parlance and for purposes of Articles 93 and 157 of the RPC means unlawful departure of prisoner from the limits of his custody. Clearly, one who has not been committed to prison cannot be said to have escaped therefrom (Del Castillo v. Torrecampo (2002).
Question: What happens in cases where our government has extradition treaty with another country but the crime is not included in the treaty? Answer: It would interrupt the running of the prescriptive period. Question: What is the effect of the acceptance of the convict of a conditional pardon? Answer: It would interrupt the acceptance of the prescriptive period. Question: What happens if the culprit is captured but he evades again the service of his sentence? Answer: The period of prescription that ran during the evasion is not forfeited. The period of prescription that has run in his favor should be taken into account. NOTE: THE RPC PROVISIONS ON CIVIL LIABILITY IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE SC OUTLINE.
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The effects of amnesty as well as absolute pardon are not the same. Amnesty erases not only the conviction but also the crime itself. If an offender was convicted for rebellion and he qualified for amnesty, and so he was given an amnesty, then years later he rebelled again and convicted, is he a recidivist? No. Because the amnesty granted to him erased not only the conviction but also the effects of the conviction itself. Suppose, instead of amnesty, what was given was absolute pardon, then years later, the offended was again captured and charged for rebellion, he was convicted, is he a recidivist? Yes. Pardon, although absolute does not erase the effects of conviction. Pardon only excuses the convict from serving the sentence. There is an exception to this and that is when the pardon was granted when the convict had already served the sentence such that there is no more service of sentence to be executed then the pardon shall be understood as intended to erase the effects of the conviction. So if the convict has already served the sentence and in spite of that he was given a pardon that pardon will cover the effects of the crime and therefore, if he will be subsequently convicted for a felony embracing the same title as that crime, he cannot
appropriate and desirable, the State shall adopt measures for dealing with such children without resorting to judicial proceedings, providing that human rights and legal safeguards are fully respected. It shall ensure that children are dealt with in a manner appropriate to their well-being by providing for, among others, a variety of disposition measures such as care, guidance and supervision orders, counseling, probation, foster care, education and vocational training programs and other alternatives to institutional care. (e) The administration of the juvenile justice and welfare system shall take into consideration the cultural and religious perspectives of the Filipino people, particularly the indigenous peoples and the Muslims, consistent with the protection of the rights of children belonging to these communities. (f) The State shall apply the principles of restorative justice in all its laws, policies and programs applicable to children in conflict with the law. SEC. 3. Liberal Construction of this Act. - In case of doubt, the interpretation of any of the provisions of this Act, including its implementing rules and regulations (IRRs), shall be construed liberally in favor of the child in conflict with the law. SEC. 4. Definition of Terms. - The following terms as used in this Act shall be defined as follows: (a) "Bail" refers to the security given for the release of the person in custody of the law, furnished by him/her or a bondsman, to guarantee his/her appearance before any court. Bail may be given in the form of corporate security, property bond, cash deposit, or recognizance. (b) "Best Interest of the Child" refers to the totality of the circumstances and conditions which are most congenial to the survival, protection and feelings of security of the child and most encouraging to the child's physical, psychological and emotional development. It also means the least detrimental available alternative for safeguarding the growth and development of the child. (e) "Child" refers to a person under the age of eighteen (18) years. (d) "Child at Risk" refers to a child who is vulnerable to and at the risk of committing criminal offenses because of personal, family and social circumstances, such as, but not limited to, the following: (1) being abused by any person through sexual, physical, psychological, mental, economic or any other means and the parents or guardian refuse, are unwilling, or unable to provide protection for the child;
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122
123
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ARTICLE IX Dangerous Drugs Board and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Section 77. The Dangerous Drugs Board. The Board shall be the policy-making and strategy-formulating body in the planning and formulation of policies and programs on drug prevention and control. It shall develop and adopt a comprehensive, integrated, unified and balanced national drug abuse prevention and control strategy. It shall be under the Office of the President. Section 78. Composition of the Board. The Board shall be composed of seventeen (17) members wherein three (3) of which are permanent members, the other twelve (12) members shall be in an ex officio capacity and the two (2) shall be regular members. The three (3) permanent members, who shall possess at least seven-year training and experience in the field of dangerous drugs and in any of the following fields: in law, medicine, criminology, psychology or social work, shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines. The President shall designate a Chairman, who shall have the rank of a secretary from among the three (3) permanent members who shall serve for six (6) years. Of the two (2) other members, who shall both have the rank of undersecretary, one (1) shall serve for four (4) years and the other for two (2) years. Thereafter, the persons appointed to succeed such members shall hold office for a term of six (6) years and until their successors shall have been duly appointed and qualified. The other twelve (12) members who shall be ex officio members of the Board are the following:
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2012
CRIMINAL
LAW
CRIMINAL LAW TEAM 2012 Faculty Editor | Prof. Jay Batongbacal Subject Heads | Camille Umali Charmaine Sto. Domingo LAYOUT TEAM 2012 Layout Artists | Alyanna Apacible Noel Luciano RM Meneses Jenin Velasquez Mara Villegas Naomi Quimpo Leslie Octaviano Yas Refran Cris Bernardino Layout Head| Graciello Timothy Reyes
Criminal Law 2
BAR OPERATIONS COMMISSION 2012 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Ramon Carlo Marcaida |Commissioner Raymond Velasco Mara Kriska Chen |Deputy Commissioners Barbie Kaye Perez |Secretary Carmen Cecilia Veneracion |Treasurer Hazel Angeline Abenoja|Auditor COMMITTEE HEADS Eleanor Balaquiao Mark Xavier Oyales | Acads Monique Morales Katleya Kate Belderol Kathleen Mae Tuason (D) Rachel Miranda (D) |Special Lectures Patricia Madarang Marinella Felizmenio |Secretariat Victoria Caranay |Publicity and Promotions Loraine Saguinsin Ma. Luz Baldueza |Marketing Benjamin Joseph Geronimo Jose Lacas |Logistics Angelo Bernard Ngo Annalee Toda|HR Anne Janelle Yu Alyssa Carmelli Castillo |Merchandise Graciello Timothy Reyes |Layout Charmaine Sto. Domingo Katrina Maniquis |Mock Bar Krizel Malabanan Karren de Chavez |Bar Candidates Welfare Karina Kirstie Paola Ayco Ma. Ara Garcia |Events OPERATIONS HEADS Charles Icasiano Katrina Rivera |Hotel Operations Marijo Alcala Marian Salanguit |Day-Operations Jauhari Azis |Night-Operations Vivienne Villanueva Charlaine Latorre |Food Kris Francisco Rimban Elvin Salindo |Transpo Paula Plaza |Linkages
Criminal Law 2
Criminal Law 1 Criminal Law 2
CRIMINAL LAW I. Crimes against National Security II. Crimes against Fundamental Laws of the State III. Crimes against Public Order IV. Crimes against Public Interest V. Crimes relative to Opium and other Prohibited Drugs VI. Crimes against Public Morals VII. Crimes committed by Public Officers VIII. Crimes against Persons IX. Crimes against Personal Liberty and Security X. Crimes against Property XI. Crimes against Chastity XII. Crimes against Civil Status XIII. Crimes against Honor XIV. Criminal Negligence
offender here before he can be made to suffer the consequences of the law. In the case of crimes against the law of nations, the offender can be prosecuted whenever he may be found because the crimes are regarded as committed against humanity in general. The acts against national security may be committed abroad and still be punishable under our law. General rule: Almost all of these are crimes committed in times of war. Exceptions: The following can be committed in times of peace: (1) Espionage (Art 117) This is also covered by Commonwealth Act No. 616 which punishes conspiracy to commit espionage. (2) Inciting to War or Giving Motives for Reprisals (Art 118) This can be committed even if the Philippines is not a participant. (3) Violation of Neutrality (Art. 119) The Philippines is not a party to an on-going war.
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CRIMES AGAINST THE LAW OF NATIONS (1) Art. 118: Inciting to War or Giving Motives for Reprisals (2) Art. 119: Violation of Neutrality (3) Art. 120: Correspondence with Hostile Country (4) Art. 121: Flight to Enemys Country (5) Art. 122: Piracy in General and Mutiny on the High Seas or in Philippine Waters (6) Art. 123: Qualified Piracy Remember: The crimes under this title can be prosecuted even if the criminal act or acts were committed outside the Philippine territorial jurisdiction. This is one of the instances where the RPC may be given extra-territorial application under Article 2 (5) thereof. However, prosecution can proceed only if the offender is: (1) within Philippine territory, OR (2) brought to the Philippines pursuant to an extradition treaty. Crimes against national security can be tried only in the Philippines, as there is a need to bring the
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the
Law
of
2. Article
119 Neutrality
Violation
of
Elements: (1) The vessel is on the high seas or Philippine waters (2) Offenders are neither members of its complement nor passengers of the vessel (3) Offenders either (a) Attack or seize that vessel; or (b) Seize the whole or part of its cargo, its equipment or personal belongings of its complement or passengers (4) There is intent to gain Acts Punished in Piracy: (1) Attacking or seizing a vessel on the high seas or in Philippine waters (2) Seizing the whole or part of its cargo, complement or passengers while the vessel is on the high seas or in Philippine waters
19
Art. 20. Accessories who are exempt from criminal liability. The penalties prescribed for accessories shall not be imposed upon those who are such with respect to their spouses, ascendants, descendants, legitimate, natural, and adopted brothers and sisters, or relatives by affinity within the same degrees, with the single exception of accessories falling within the provisions of paragraph 1 of the next preceding article.
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159
160
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8. Article
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer or employee (2) He performs any of the following acts: (a) Prohibiting or interrupting, without legal ground, the holding of a peaceful meeting, or by dissolving the same (b) Hindering any person from joining any lawful association, or from attending any of its meetings (c) Prohibiting or hindering any person from addressing, either alone or together with others, any petition to the authorities for the correction of abuses or redress of grievances The government has a right to require a permit before any gathering can be made. HOWEVER, the government only has regulatory, NOT PROHIBITORY, powers with regard to such requirement. The permit should state the day, time, and place of the gathering. If the permit is denied arbitrarily, OR the officer dictates the place where the meeting is to be held, this article is VIOLATED. If in the course of the assembly, which started out peacefully, the participants committed illegal acts like oral defamation or inciting to sedition, a public officer or law enforcer can stop or dissolve the meeting. Two criteria to determine whether this article would be violated: (1) Dangerous tendency rule applied during times of national unrest such as to prevent coup detat. (2) Clear and present danger rule applied during times of peace. Stricter rule.
9. Article
of
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer or employee (2) Religious ceremonies or manifestations of any religion are about to take place or are going on (3) Offender prevents or disturbs the same
10.
162
Elements: (1) Acts complained of were performed in a place devoted to religious worship, OR during the celebration of any religious ceremony (2) The acts must be notoriously offensive to the feelings of the faithful Jurisprudence: A Catholic priest complained against a group that passed by the churchyard as they were holding the funeral rites of a Church of Christ member. An act is NOTORIOUSLY OFFENSIVE to the religious feelings when a person: (1) Ridicules or makes light of anything constituting religious dogma (2) Works or scoffs at anything devoted to religious ceremonies (3) Plays with or damages or destroys any object of veneration of the faithful WON an act is offensive to the religious feelings, is a question of fact which must be adjudged only according to the feelings of the Catholics and not those of other faithful ones. [People v. Baes (1939)] Laurel Dissent: The determination should NOT be made to depend upon a more or less broad or narrow conception of any given religion. Facts and circumstances should be viewed through an unbiased judicial criterion. (Note: This later became the majority decision in People v. Tengson) The crime is only UNJUST VEXATION when the act is NOT directed at the religious belief itself and there is no intention of causing so serious a disturbance as to interrupt a religious ceremony. [People v. Nanoy] See also: (1) RA 9372 : Human Security Act (2) RA 9745: Anti-Torture Act
134 /Insurrection
Rebellion
163
NOTE: There is no longer a crime of subversion by virtue of RA 7636, which repealed RA 1700. Rebellion vs. Sedition Rebellion There must be taking up of arms against the government. The purpose is always political. Sedition It is sufficient that the public uprising be tumultuous. The purpose may be political or social.
NOTE : When any of the objectives of rebellion is pursued but there is no public uprising in the legal sense, the crime is direct assault of the first form.
3. Article
Persons liable for rebellion, insurrection or coup d'etat (1) The leaders: (a) Any person who promotes, maintains or heads a rebellion or insurrection; or (b) Any person who leads, directs or commands others to undertake a coup d'etat;
164
Mode 1: Conspiracy to commit coup dtat, rebellion or insurrection Elements: (1) Two or more persons come to an agreement to swiftly attack or to rise publicly and take arms against the Government for any of the purposes of rebellion or insurrection; (2) They decide to commit it. Mode 2: Proposal to commit rebellion or insurrection coup dtat,
Elements: (1) A person has decided to swiftly attack or to rise publicly and take arms against the Government for any of the purposes of rebellion or insurrection; (2) Such person proposes its execution to some other person or persons. Conspiracy vs. Proposal Conspiracywhen two or more persons come to an agreement to rise publicly and take arms against government for any of the purposes of rebellion and decide to commit it. Proposalwhen the person who has decided to rise publicly and take arms against the government for any of the purposes of rebellion proposes its execution to some other person or persons.
Proposal to Commit Inciting to Rebellion Rebellion The offender induces another to commit rebellion. Rebellion should not be actually committed by the persons to whom it is proposed or who are incited. [Otherwise, they become principals by inducement in the crime of rebellion.] The person who proposes There is no need that has decided to commit the offender has decided rebellion. to commit rebellion. The person who proposes The act of inciting is the execution of the done publicly. crime uses secret means.
10.
Article Sedition
142
Inciting
to
Mode 1. Inciting others to the accomplishment of any of the acts which constitute sedition by means of speeches, proclamations, writings, emblems, etc. Elements: (1) Offender does not take direct part in the crime of sedition; (2) He incites others to the accomplishment of any of the acts which constitute sedition by means of speeches, proclamations, writings, emblems, cartoons, banners, or other representations tending towards the same end. Mode 2. Mode 3. Uttering seditious words or speeches which tend to disturb the public peace; Writing, publishing, or circulating scurrilous libels against the government or any of the duly constituted authorities thereof, which tend to disturb the public peace.
165
A friction between the Philippine constabulary and the Manila police escalated and resulted in the deaths of 6 policemen and 2 civilians and in the serious injuries of 3 civilians. The Court held that unlike the crime of rebellion, common crimes committed in the occasion of sedition are to be appreciated as separate crimes. [People v Cabrera (1922)]
Elements: (1) Offender does not take part in the crime of sedition. (2) He uttered words or speeches and writing, publishing or circulating scurrilous libels and that (a) Tend to disturb or obstruct any lawful officer in conducting the functions of his office; (b) Tend to instigate others to cabal and meet together for unlawful purposes; (c) Suggest or incite rebellious conspiracies or riots; OR (d) Lead or tend to stir up the people against the lawful authorities or to disturb the peace of the community, the safety and order of the government Considering that the objective of sedition is to express protest against the government and in the process creating hate against public officers, any act that will generate hatred against the government or a public officer concerned or a social class may amount to Inciting to Sedition. Article 142 is, therefore, quite broad. Constitutional Tests relative to seditious words: Clear and Present Danger, and Dangerous Tendency The manifest, unmistakable tendency of the dramatic play, in view of the time, place, and manner of its presentation, was to inculcate a spirit of hatred and enmity against the American people and the Government of the US in the Philippines. [US v Tolentino (1906)]
9. Article
Conspiracy
to
Elements: (1) Two or more persons come to an agreement and a decision to rise publicly and tumultuously to attain any of the objects of sedition; (2) They decide to commit it. NOTE: There is no proposal to commit sedition.
166
special session, except in case such member has committed a crime punishable under the Code by a penalty higher than prision mayor. Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer of employee; (2) He arrests or searches any member of Congress; (3) Congress, at the time of arrest or search, is in regular or special session; (4) The member arrested or searched has not committed a crime punishable under the Code by a penalty higher than prision mayor. Parliamentary immunity does not protect members of Congress from responsibility in accordance with the disciplinary rules of Congress itself. 1987 Constitution: Members of Congress cannot be arrested for offenses punishable by a penalty less than prision mayor (6 yrs and 1 day to 12 yrs), while Congress is in session. They can be prosecuted after Congress adjourns.
Elements: (1) There is a projected or actual meeting of Congress or any of its committees or subcommittees, constitutional committees or divisions thereof, or of any provincial board or city or municipal council or board; (2) Offender, who may be any person, prevents such meetings by force or fraud.
2. Article
144 Proceedings
Disturbance
of
Elements: (1) There is a meeting of Congress or any of its committees or subcommittees, constitutional commissions or committees or divisions thereof, or of any provincial board or city or municipal council or board; (2) Offender does any of the following acts: (a) He disturbs any of such meetings; (b) He behaves while in the presence of any such bodies in such a manner as to interrupt its proceedings or to impair the respect due it. Complaint may be filed by a member of the legislative body. One who disturbs may also be punished for contempt by Congress.
C. Chapter III Illegal Assemblies and Associations 1. Article 146 - Illegal Assemblies
(asked once 1983-86) (See RA 8294) Mode 1: Any meeting attended by armed persons for the purpose of committing any of the crimes punishable under the Code; Elements: (1) There is a meeting, a gathering or group of persons, whether in a fixed place or moving; (2) The meeting is attended by armed persons; (3) The purpose of the meeting is to commit any of the crimes punishable under the Code. Mode 2: Any meeting in which the audience, whether armed or not, is incited to the commission of the crime of treason, rebellion or insurrection, sedition, or assault upon person in authority or his agents. Elements: (1) There is a meeting, a gathering or group of persons, whether in a fixed place or moving; (2) The audience, whether armed or not, is incited to the commission of the crime of treason, rebellion or insurrection, sedition or direct assault. Persons liable for illegal assembly: (1) The organizer or leaders of the meeting;
3. Article
Mode 1:
of
Using force, intimidation, threats, or frauds to prevent any member of Congress from attending the meetings of Congress or of any of its committees or subcommittees, constitutional commissions or committees or divisions thereof, or from expressing his opinion or casting his vote;
Elements: (1) Offender uses force, intimidation, threats or fraud; (2) The purpose of the offender is to prevent any member of Congress from: (a) Attending the meetings of the Congress or of any of its committees or constitutional commissions; (b) Expressing his opinion; OR (c) Casting his vote. Note: Offender in mode 1 is any person Mode 2: Arresting or searching any member thereof while Congress is in regular or
167
Elements: (1) Offender makes an attack, employs force, makes a serious intimidation, or makes a serious resistance; (2) The person assaulted is a person in authority or his agent; (3) At the time of the assault, the person in authority or his agent is engaged in the actual performance of official duties, OR that he is assaulted by reason of the past performance of official duties; (4) Offender knows that the one he is assaulting is a person in authority or his agent in the exercise of his duties. (5) There is no public uprising. The first form of direct assault is tantamount to rebellion or sedition, except that there is no pubic uprising. Classifications qualified. of direct assault: simple and
Assault is qualified when: (1) There is a weapon employed in the attack (2) The offender is a public officer (3) The offender lays hands on a public authority When the assault results in the killing of that agent or of a person in authority, the offense committed is complex crime of direct assault with murder or homicide. The only time when it is not complexed is when material consequence is a light felony, that is, slight physical injury. Direct assault absorbs the lighter felony. The force employed need not be serious when the offended party is a person in authority; Intimidation or resistance must be serious whether the offended party is a person in authority OR an agent of a person in authority If the public officer is not a person in authority, the assault on him is an aggravating circumstance in Art. 14, no. 3 (rank). (Boado, Comprehensive Reviewer in Criminal Law).
D. Chapter IV - Assault upon and Resistance and Disobedience to, Persons in Authority and Their Agents 1. Article 148 - Direct Assault
(asked twice 1975-79; once 1987-89; once 2000-06) Mode 1. Without public uprising, by employing force or intimidation for the attainment of any of the purposes enumerated in defining the crimes of rebellion and sedition;
168
Gabutero was acting in the performance of his duties [as he was trying to pacify Dollantes who was causing trouble] as barangay captain when he was stabbed to death. Thus, the crime committed was murder with assault upon a person in authority. [People v. Dollantes (1987)]
Summons Issued by Congress, Its Committees or Subcommittees, by the Constitutional Commissions, Its Committees, Subcommittees or Divisions
By refusing, without legal excuse, to obey summons of Congress, its special or standing committees and subcommittees, the Constitutional Commissions and its committees, subcommittees or divisions, or by any commission or committee chairman or member authorized to summon witnesses; By refusing to be sworn or placed under affirmation while being before such legislative or constitutional body or official; By refusing to answer any legal inquiry or to produce any books, papers, documents, or records in his possession, when required by them to do so in the exercise of their functions; By restraining another from attending as a witness in such legislative or constitutional body; By inducing disobedience to a summons or refusal to be sworn by any such body or official.
Mode 1.
Mode 2.
Mode 3.
Mode 4.
Mode 5.
The testimony of a person summoned must be upon matters into which the legislature has jurisdiction to inquire.
5. Article
151 - Resistance and Disobedience to a Person in Authority or the Agents of Such Persons
Resistance and serious disobedience
Elements: (1) A person in authority or his agent is engaged in the performance of official duty or gives a lawful order to the offender; (2) Offender resists or seriously disobeys such person in authority or his agent; (3) The act of the offender is not included in the provision of Articles 148, 149 and 150. Mode 2: Simple disobedience
Elements: (1) An agent of a person in authority is engaged in the performance of official duty or gives a lawful order to the offender;
169
Serious Disobedience vs. Direct Assault Serious Disobedience Direct Assault Person in authority or his agent must be in actual performance of his duties The person in authority or his agent must be engaged in the performance of official duties or that he is assaulted by reason thereof Committed in four ways (see Art. 148, Mode 2 above) There is force employed
Mode 1.
Committed only by resisting or seriously disobeying a person in authority or his agent Use of force is not so serious
Mode 2.
Mode 4:
Mode 3:
Mode 4:
To be liable, the offender must know that the news is false. Actual public disorder or actual damage to the credit of the State is not necessary.
Mode 5:
Serious disturbance must be planned or intended. This article applies if the disturbance is not caused by a public officer; or, if it is committed by a public officer, he is a participant therein. Definition of outcry: to shout subversive or provocative words tending to stir up the people to obtain by means of force or violence any of the objects of rebellion or sedition. If done unconsciously or without intent to incite the listeners to rise to sedition or rebellion, this article applies.
Mode 2:
Mode 3:
170
Mode 4:
Causing any disturbances or scandal in public places while intoxicated or otherwise, provided Art. 153 is not applicable.
The crime alarms and scandal is only one crime. Scandal here does not refer to moral scandal; that one is grave scandal in Article 200. The essence of the crime is disturbance of public tranquility and public peace. Any kind of disturbance of public order where the circumstance at the time renders the act offensive to the tranquility prevailing, the crime is committed. Definition of charivari: includes a medley of discordant voices, a mock serenade of discordant noises made on kettles, tin, horns, etc. designed to annoy or insult NOTE: Calculated to cause should be which produces alarm and danger according to the correct translation of the RPC. Hence, the result, and not the intent, that counts. (Reyes)
171
Elements: (1) Offender is a convict by final judgment, who is confined in a penal institution; (2) There is disorder, resulting from (a) conflagration; (b) earthquake; (c) explosion; (d) similar catastrophe; or (e) mutiny in which he has not participated; (3) He evades the service of his sentence by leaving the penal institution where he is confined, on the occasion of such disorder or during the mutiny; (4) He fails to give himself up to the authorities within 48 hours following the issuance of a proclamation by the Chief Executive announcing the passing away of such calamity. Leaving the penal establishment is not the basis of criminal liability. It is the failure to return within 48 hours after the passing of the calamity, conflagration or mutiny had been announced. Under Article 158, those who return within 48 hours are given credit or deduction from the remaining period of their sentence equivalent to 1/5 of the original term of the sentence. If the prisoner fails to return within said 48 hours, there will be an additional penalty of 1/5, shall be imposed but the 1/5 penalty is based on the remaining period of the sentence, not on the original sentence. In no case shall that penalty exceed six months. Mutiny is one of the causes which may authorize a convict serving sentence in the penitentiary to leave the jail provided he has not taken part in the mutiny.
G. Chapter VII - Commission of Another Crime during Service of Penalty Imposed for Another Previous Offense 1. Article 160 - Quasi Recidivism
Elements: (1) Offender was already convicted by final judgment of one offense; (2) He committed a new felony before beginning to serve such sentence or while serving the same. See Also: (1) PD 1866 as amended by RA 8294: Illegal Possession of Firearms (2) RA 9372: Human Security Act Distinction between Habitual Delinquency, Recidivism and Habituality/Reiteracion/Repetition See Annex B.
172
the Philippine Islands, Forging the Signature or Stamp of the Chief Executive
Acts punished: Forging the (1) Great Seal of the Government of the Philippines; (2) Signature of the President; (3) Stamp of the President. When the signature of the president is forged, the crime committed is covered by this provision and not falsification of public document. Intent to use is necessary. Actual use, however, is not required, as long as the forger intended to use it.
2. Article
Elements: (1) The great Seal of the Republic was counterfeited OR the Signature or stamp of the Chief Executive was forged by another person; (2) Offender Knew of the counterfeiting or forgery; (3) He Used the counterfeit seal or forged signature or stamp. Remember: Offender under this article should not be the forger. The participation of the offender is in effect that of an accessory. Although the general rule is that he should be punished by a penalty of two degrees lower, under Art. 162 he is punished by a penalty only one degree lower.
173
Mode 1: Possession of coin, counterfeited or mutilated by another person, with intent to utter the same, knowing that it is false or mutilated; Elements: (1) Possession; (2) With Intent to utter; and (3) Knowledge. Mode 2: Actually uttering such false or mutilated coin, knowing the same to be false or mutilated. Elements: (1) Actually uttering; and (2) Knowledge. Possession prohibited in this article is not only actual and physical possession, but also that of a constructive one, or the subjection of the thing to ones control. The possessor should not be the counterfeiter, mutilator, or importer of the coins. As long as the offender has knowledge that the coin is false or mutilated, there is no need for him to connive with the counterfeiter or mutilator.
Bank Notes or Other Documents Payable to Bearer; Importing and Uttering Such False or Forged Notes and Documents
Acts punished (1) Forging or falsification of treasury or bank notes or other documents payable to bearer; (2) Importation of such false or forged obligations or notes; (3) Uttering of such false or forged obligations or notes in connivance with the forgers or importers. Forging: By giving any treasury or bank note, or any instrument payable to bearer, or to order the appearance of a true and genuine document. Falsification: By erasing, substituting, counterfeiting or altering by any means, the figures, letters, words, or signs contained therein. The instrument is payable to bearer: (1) When expressed to be so payable (2) When payable to a person named therein or bearer
174
7. Article
Elements: (1) There is an Instrument payable to order or other document of credit not payable to bearer; (2) Offender either Forged, imported or uttered such instrument; (3) In case of uttering, he Connived with the forger or importer. This covers instruments or other documents of credit issued by a foreign government or bank. Forgery of currency is punished so as to maintain integrity of the currency and thus insure the credit standing of the government.
of
Elements: (1) Any treasury or bank note or certificate or other obligation and security: (a) Payable to bearer, or any instrument payable to order or other document of credit not payable to bearer is (b) Forged or falsified by another person; (2) Offender Knows that any of those instruments is forged or falsified; (3) He either (a) Uses any of such forged or falsified instruments; or (b) Possesses with intent to use any of such forged or falsified instruments The rule is that if a person had in his possession a falsified document and he made use of it, taking advantage of it and profiting thereby, the presumption is that he is the material author of the falsification. Intent to use is sufficient to consummate the crime when the offender is in possession of false or
Elements: (1) There is a Bill, resolution or ordinance enacted or approved or pending approval by either House of the Legislature or any provincial board or municipal council; (2) Offender Alters the same; (3) He has No proper authority therefor; (4) The alteration has Changed the meaning of the documents. The writing must be: (1) complete in itself; and (2) capable of extinguishing an obligation or creating rights; or (3) capable of becoming evidence of the facts stated therein. Five classes of falsification: (1) Falsification of legislative documents; (2) Falsification of a document by a public officer, employee or notary public; (3) Falsification of a public or official, or commercial documents by a private individual; (4) Falsification of a private document by any person;
175
Elements: (1) Offender is a Public officer, employee, or notary public; (2) He Takes advantage of his official position; (3) He falsifies a document by committing any of the following acts: (a) Counterfeiting or imitating any handwriting, signature or rubric; (b) Causing it to appear that persons have participated in any act or proceeding when they did not in fact so participate; (c) Attributing to persons who have participated in an act or proceeding statements other than those in fact made by them; (d) Making untruthful statements in a narration of facts; (e) Altering true dates; (f) Making any alteration or intercalation in a genuine document which changes its meaning; (g) Issuing in an authenticated form: (i) A document purporting to be a copy of an original document (ii) When no such original exists, or (iii) Including in such a copy a statement contrary to, or different from, that of the genuine original; (h) Intercalating any instrument or note relative to the issuance thereof in a protocol, registry, or official book. 1st Element: Persons Liable under this Article Under this article, only a public officer, employee or notary public, or ecclesiastical minister can be the offender. The ecclesiastical minister is liable with respect to any record or document that its falsification may affect the civil status of persons. 2nd Element: Offender Take Advantage of his Official Position
PAR 1: Counterfeiting or imitating any handwriting, signature or rubric. 2 ways of committing falsification under this paragraph: (1) Counterfeiting, which is imitating any handwriting, signature or rubric (a) There should be an intent to imitate, or an attempt to imitate (b) Two signatures, the genuine and the forged, should bear some resemblance. (2) Feigning, which is simulating a signature, handwriting or rubric out of one which does not actually exist. PAR 2: Causing it to appear that persons have participated in any act or proceeding when they did not in fact so participate. Two Requisites: (1) Offender caused it to appear in a document that a person/s participated in an act or proceeding. (2) Such person/s did not in fact participate. PAR 3: Attributing to persons who have participated in an act or proceeding statements other than those in fact made by them Three Requisites: (1) Person/s participated in an act or proceeding (2) Such person/s made statements in that act or proceeding
176
177
of
Elements: (1) Offender is a Private individual OR Public officer or employee who did not take advantage of his official position; (2) He committed any act of Falsification (Art. 171); (3) The falsification was committed in a public, official, or commercial Document or letter of exchange. Mode 2: Falsification of private document by any person; Elements: (1) Offender committed any of the acts of Falsification except Article 171(7), that is, (a) Issuing in an authenticated form a document purporting to be a copy of an original document when no such original exists, or (b) Including in such a copy a statement contrary to, or different from, that of the genuine original; (2) Falsification was committed in any Private document; (3) Falsification causes Damage to a third party or at least the falsification was committed with intent to cause such damage. Mode 3: Use of falsified document. Elements in introducing in a judicial proceeding
178
5. Article
Persons liable (1) Physician or surgeon who, in connection with the practice of his profession, issues a false certificate (it must refer to the illness or injury of a person); Note: The crime here is false medical certificate by a physician. (2) Public officer who issues a false certificate of merit of service, good conduct or similar circumstances; Note: The crime here is false certificate of merit or service by a public officer. (3) Private person who falsifies a certificate falling within the classes mentioned in the two preceding subdivisions. Note: The crime here is false medical certificate by a private individual or false certificate of merit or service by a private individual. See Special Law: RA 4200: Anti-wiretapping Law
4. Article
173 - Falsification of Wireless, Cable, Telegraph and Telephone Messages, and Use of Said Falsified Messages
Mode 1: Uttering fictitious wireless, telegraph or telephone message; Elements: (1) Offender is an officer or employee of the government or an officer or employee of a private corporation, engaged in the service of sending or receiving wireless, cable or telephone message; (2) He utters fictitious wireless, cable, telegraph or telephone message. Mode 2: Falsifying wireless, telephone message; telegraph or
6. Article
175 Certificates
Using
False
Elements: (1) Offender is an officer or employee of the government or an officer or employee of a private corporation, engaged in the service of sending or receiving wireless, cable or telephone message; (2) He falsifies wireless, cable, telegraph or telephone message.
Elements: (1) The following Issues a false certificate: (a) Physician or surgeon, in connection with the practice of his profession, issues a false Medical certificate; (b) Public officer issues a false certificate of Merit of service, good conduct or similar circumstances; (c) Private Person falsifies a certificate falling within the 2 preceding subdivisions. (2) Offender Knows that the certificate was false; (3) He Uses the same.
179
Acts punished: (1) Making or introducing into the Philippines any stamps, dies, marks, or other instruments or implements for counterfeiting or falsification; (2) Possession with intent to use the instruments or implements for counterfeiting or falsification made in or introduced into the Philippines by another person. As in Art. 165, the possession contemplated here is constructive possession. The implements confiscated need not form a complete set.
of
Mode 1: Usurpation of authority. (no connection with the office represented) The mere act of knowingly and falsely representing oneself to be an officer is sufficient. It is not necessary that he perform an act pertaining to a public officer. Elements: (1) Offender knowingly and falsely Represents himself; (2) As an Officer, agent or representative of any department or agency of the Philippine government or of any foreign government. Mode 2: Usurpation of official functions. (excess of authority) In usurpation of official functions, it is essential that the offender should have performed an act pertaining to a person in authority or public officer, in addition to other requirements. Elements (1) Offender Performs any act; (2) Pertaining to any person in authority or public officer of the Philippine government or any foreign government, or any agency thereof; (3) Under Pretense of official position; (4) Without being lawfully entitled to do so. The offender should have: (1) Represented himself to be an officer, agent or representative of any agency of the government. (2) Performed an act pertaining to a person in authority or public officer.
If the purpose is for causing damage, it must be damage to public interest. If it is damage to private interest, the crime will be estafa under Art 315 2(a). See Special Law: Commonwealth Act No. 142 (Regulating the Use of Aliases)
3. Article
Use
of
Elements: (1) Offender makes Use of insignia, uniforms or dress; (2) The insignia, uniforms or dress pertains to an Office not held by such person or a class of persons of which he is not a member; (3) Said insignia, uniform or dress is Used publicly and improperly. Remember: Exact imitation of a uniform or dress is unnecessary; a colorable resemblance calculated to deceive the common run of people is sufficient. RA 75 also punishes using the use of uniform, decoration or regalia of a foreign state by people not entitled to do so. RA 493 punishes wearing an insignia, badge, or emblem of rank of the members of the AFP or constabulary.
180
Against a Defendant
Elements: (1) There is a Criminal proceeding; (2) Offender Testifies falsely under oath against the defendant therein; (3) Offender who gives false testimony Knows that it is false. (4) Defendant against whom the false testimony is given is either acquitted or convicted in a Final judgment. The witness who gave the false testimony is liable even if his testimony was not considered by the court. False Testimony: Committed by a person who, being under oath and required to testify as to the truth of a certain matter at a hearing before a competent authority, shall deny the truth or say something contrary to it. False testimony is punished because of its tendency to prejudice defendant. Three forms of false testimony: (1) False testimony in criminal cases under Article 180 and 181; (2) False testimony in civil case under Article 182; (3) False testimony in other cases under Article 183. Articles 180 184 punish the acts of making false testimonies since because such acts seriously expose society to miscarriage of justice.
The crime is consummated by: (1) Mere solicitation of gift or promise as consideration for not bidding, or (2) By mere attempt to cause prospective bidders to stay away from an auction.
181
10.
8. Article
False
Mode 1: Combination to prevent free competition in the market Elements: (1) Entering into any contract or agreement; OR taking part in any conspiracy or combination in the form of a trust or otherwise; (2) In restraint of trade or commerce or to prevent by artificial means free competition in the market Mode 2: Monopoly to restrain free competition in the market Elements: (1) Monopolizing any merchandise or object of trade or commerce; OR (2) Combining with any other person or persons to monopolize said merchandise or object in order to alter the prices thereof by spreading false rumors or making use of any other artifice to restrain free competition in the market Mode 3: Manufacturer, producer, or processor or importer combining, conspiring or agreeing with any person to make transactions prejudicial to lawful commerce or to increase the market price of merchandise Elements: (1) Person liable: (1) manufacturer, (2) producer, (3) processor, or (4) importer of any merchandise or object of commerce (2) Crime committed by: (1) combining, (2) conspiring, or (3) agreeing with any person (3) Purpose: (1) to make transactions prejudicial to lawful commerce, or (2) to increase the market price of any merchandise or object of commerce manufactured, produced, processed, assembled, or imported into the Philippines Theory of the law: Competition, not combination, should be the law of trade Mere conspiracy of combination is punished. If the offense affects any food substance or other article of prime necessity, it is sufficient that initial steps are taken.
Elements: (1) Offender Offers in evidence a false witness or testimony; (2) He Knows that the witness or the testimony was false; (3) The offer is made in any Judicial OR Official proceeding. Offer of evidence begins at the moment a witness is called to the stand and interrogated by counsel. The witness must testify.
182
11.
Article 187 Importation and Disposition of Falsely Marked Articles or Merchandise Made of Gold, Silver, or other Precious Metals or their Alloys
Elements: (1) Offender imports, sells or disposes of any of those articles or merchandise (i.e. gold, silver, other precious metals or their alloys) (2) The stamps, brands, or marks of those articles of merchandise fail to indicate the actual fineness or quality of said metals or alloys (3) Offender knows that the stamps, brands, or marks fail to indicate the actual fineness or quality of the metals or alloys Selling the misbranded articles is not necessary. Art. 187 does not apply to manufacturer of misbranded articles he would be liable for estafa under Art. 315(2)(b). See Also: (1) RA 9184: New Public Bidding Law (2) CA 142: Anti-Alias Law
NOTE: Art 190-194 were repealed by RA 6425, known as the Dangerous Drug Act of 1972. RA No. 9165, known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 in turn repealed RA No. 6425.
A. Acts Punished:
(1) Importation of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemical (Sec. 4) (2) Sale, Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution and Transportation of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals (Sec. 5) (3) Maintenance of a Den, Dive or Resort. (Sec. 6) (4) Employees and Visitors of a Den, Dive or Resort (Sec. 7) (5) Manufacture of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals (Sec. 8)
183
184
How long will the drug dependent be confined for treatment and rehabilitation? Confinement in a Center for treatment and rehabilitation shall not exceed one (1) year, after which time the Court, as well as the Board, shall be apprised by the head of the treatment and rehabilitation center of the status of said drug dependent and determine whether further confinement will be for the welfare of the drug dependent and his/her family or the community (Section 54, Article VIII, RA 9165). How will a drug dependent who is under the voluntary submission program and is finally discharged from confinement in the Center be exempt from criminal liability? (1) He/she has complied with the rules and regulations of the center, the applicable rules and regulations of the Board, including the after-care and follow-up program for at least eighteen (18) months following temporary discharge from confinement in the Center (2) He/she has never been charged or convicted of any offense punishable under this Act, the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972 or Republic Act No. 6425, as amended; the Revised Penal Code, as amended; or any special penal laws (3) He/she has no record of escape from a Center (4) He/she poses no serious danger to himself/herself, his/her family or the community by his/her exemption from criminal liability (Section 55, Article VIII, RA 916) What are the functions of the Dangerous Drugs Board? (1) Be the policy-making and strategyformulating body in the planning and formulation of policies and programs on drug prevention and control. (2) Develop and adopt a comprehensive, integrated, unified and balanced national drug abuse prevention and control strategy. (3) Be under the Office of the President. (Section 77, Article IX, RA 9165) What is the PDEA? The PDEA is the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency. It serves as the implementing arm of the Dangerous Drugs Board. It shall be responsible for the efficient and effective law enforcement of all the provisions on any dangerous drug and/or controlled precursor and essential chemical as provided in this Act. (Section 82, Article IX, RA 916)
A. Chapter Betting
Gambling
and
185
Acts punished: (1) Importing into the Philippines from any foreign place or port any lottery ticket or advertisement; or (2) Selling or distributing the same in connivance with the importer; (3) Possessing, knowingly and with intent to use them, lottery tickets or advertisements; or (4) Selling or distributing the same without connivance with the importer of the same. [Reyes] The possession of any lottery ticket or advertisement is prima facie evidence of intent to sell, distribute or use the same in the Philippines.
186
Only municipal and city mayors are allowed to issue licenses for such. This decree does not punish a person attending as a spectator in a cockfight. To be liable, he must participate as a bettor.
B. Chapter II. Offenses against Decency and Good Customs 0. 1. Article 200 - Grave Scandal
Elements: (1) Offender performs an act or acts; (2) Such act or acts be highly scandalous as offending against decency or good customs; (3) The highly scandalous conduct is not expressly falling within any other article of this Code; and (4) The act or acts complained of be committed in a public place or within the public knowledge or view. (Reyes) Decency: means proprietary of conduct; proper observance of the requirements of modesty, good taste, etc. Customs: established usage, social conventions carried on by tradition and enforced by social disapproval of any violation thereof. Grave Scandal: consists of acts which are offensive to decency and good customs which, having committed publicly, have given rise to public scandal to persons who have accidentally witnessed the same. The acts must be performed in a public place or within the public knowledge or view. If it is committed in a private place, the crime of grave scandal is not committed. In conducts involving lasciviousness, it is grave scandal only where there is mutual consent. (Boado, Comprehensive Reviewer in Criminal Law) Any act which is notoriously offensive to decency may bring about criminal liability for the crime of grave scandal, Provided such act does not constitute some other crime under the Revised Penal Code. Grave scandal is a crime of last resort.
Acts punished (as amended by PD No. 960, 969) (1) Those who shall publicly expound or proclaim doctrines openly contrary to public morals;
187
3. Article
202 Prostitution
Vagrancy
and
Persons Liable: (1) Any person having no apparent means of subsistence, who has the physical ability to work and who neglects to apply himself or herself to some lawful calling; (2) Any person found loitering about public or semi-public buildings or places or trampling or wandering about the country or the streets without visible means of support; (3) Any idle or dissolute person who lodges in houses of ill fame; ruffians or pimps and those who habitually associate with prostitutes; (4) Any person who, not being included in the provisions of other articles of this Code, shall be found loitering in any inhabited or uninhabited place belonging to another without any lawful or justifiable purpose; and (5) Prostitutes Prostitutes: women who, for money or profit habitually indulge in sexual intercourse or lascivious conduct Dissolute: lax, unrestrained, immoral Ruffian: brutal, violent, lawless persons Pimp: One who provides gratification for the lust of others Even millionaires or one who has more than enough for his livelihood can commit vagrancy by habitually associating with prostitutes, pimps, ruffians, or by habitually lodging in houses of ill-repute. The purpose of the law is not simply to punish a person because he has no means of livelihood; it is to prevent further criminality. Any person found wandering in an estate belonging to another whether public or private without any lawful purpose also commits vagrancy, unless his acts constitutes some other crime in the Revised Penal Code. The term prostitution is applicable to a woman who for profit or money habitually engages in sexual or lascivious conduct. A man, if he engages in the same conduct sex for money is not a prostitute, but a vagrant.
188
189
190
Elements: (1) Causing damage to his client, either (a) By any malicious breach of professional duty; (b) By inexcusable negligence or ignorance. (2) Revealing any of the secrets of his client learned by him in his professional capacity (damage is not necessary); (3) Undertaking the defense of the opposing party in the same case, without the consent of his first client, (a) after having undertaken the defense of said first client, or (b) after having received confidential information from said client. When the attorney acts with malicious abuse of his employment or inexcusable negligence or ignorance, there must be damage to his client. Communications made with prospective clients to a lawyer with a view to engaging his professional services are already privileged even though the client-lawyer relationship did not eventually materialize. The confidential matters or information must be confided to the lawyer in the latters professional capacity. Mere malicious breach without damage is not a violation of Article 209; at most he will be liable administratively as a lawyer, e.g., suspension or disbarment under the Code of Professional Responsibility. Modes of Commission:
5. Article
Mode 1. Maliciously refraining from instituting prosecution against violators of the law; Mode 2. Maliciously tolerating the commission of
191
Mode 2.
Mode 3.
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer within the scope of Article 203; (2) Offender accepts an offer or a promise or receives a gift or present by himself or through another; (3) Such offer or promise be accepted, or gift or present received by the public officer (a) With a view to committing some crime; or (b) In consideration of the execution of an act which does not constitute a crime, but the act must be unjust; or (c) To refrain from doing something which it is his official duty to do. (4) The act which offender agrees to perform or which he executes be connected with the performance of his official duties.
192
10.
(asked 4 times) Elements: (1) Offender makes offers or promises or gives gifts or presents to a public officer; (2) The offers or promises are made or the gifts or presents given to a public officer, under circumstances that will make the public officer liable for direct bribery or indirect bribery. The offender is the giver of the gift or the offeror of the promise. The act may or may not be accomplished. The following are the SPECIAL LAWS related to the prosecution and punishment of GRAFT and CORRUPTION: (1) PD No. 749 (2) RA 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) (3) RA 7080 (Anti-Plunder Act) (4) RA 1379 (FORFEITURE OF ILL-GOTTEN WEALTH) (5) PD NO. 46 (6) RA 6713: Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees
C. Chapter III: Frauds and Illegal Exactions and Transactions 0. 1. Article 213 - Fraud against the
Public Treasury Offenses
(asked twice) Mode 1 Entering into an agreement with any interested party or speculator or making use of any other scheme, to defraud the government, in dealing with any person with regard to furnishing supplies, the making of contracts, or the adjustment or settlement of accounts relating to public property or funds; Demanding, directly or indirectly, the payment of sums different from or larger than those authorized by law, in collection of taxes, licenses, fees, and other imposts;
and
Similar
Mode 2
193
Mode 4 Collecting or receiving, directly or indirectly, by way of payment or otherwise, things or objects of a nature different from that provided by law, in the collection of taxes, licenses, fees and other imposts. Elements of Fraud against Public Treasury (par.1): (1) That the offender is a public officer (2) That he should have taken advantage of his public office, that is, he intervened in the transaction in his official capacity (3) That he entered into an agreement with any interested party or speculator or made use of any other scheme with regard to: (a) Furnishing supplies (b) The making of contracts (c) The adjustment or settlement of accounts relating to public property or funds Consummated by merely entering into agreement with any interested party or speculator or by merely making use of other scheme to defraud the government. It is not necessary that the Government is actually defrauded by the reason of the transaction Elements of Illegal Exactions (par.2.): (1) That the offender is a public officer entrusted with the collection of taxes, licenses, fees and other imports; (2) He is guilty of the following acts or omissions: (a) Demanding directly or indirectly, the payment of sums of different from or larger than those authorized by law; (b) Failing voluntarily to issue a receipt as provided by law, for ay sum of money collected by him officially; or (c) Collecting or receiving, directly or indirectly, by way of payment or otherwise, things or object of a nature different from that provided by law This can only be committed principally by a public officer whose official duty is to collect taxes, license fees, import duties and other dues payable to the government. Mere demand of a larger or different amount is sufficient to consummate the crime. The essence is the improper collection (damage to government is not required). The act of receiving payment due the government without issuing a receipt will give rise to illegal
3. Article
215 Transactions
Prohibited
Elements: (1) Offender is an appointive public officer; (2) He becomes interested, directly or indirectly, in any transaction of exchange or speculation; (3) The transaction takes place within the territory subject to his jurisdiction; (4) He becomes interested in the transaction during his incumbency. Examples of transactions of exchange or speculation are: buying and selling stocks, commodities, land etc wherein one hopes to take advantage of an expected rise or fall in price Purchasing of stocks or shares in a company is simple investment and not a violation of the article. However, regularly buying securities for resale is speculation. The offender may also be held liable under RA 3019 Sec 3(i). (infra)
4. Article
194
The public officer must have official custody or the duty to collect or receive funds due the government, or the obligation to account for them. It is not necessary that the offender profited for as long as the accountable officer was remiss in his duty of safekeeping public funds or property. He is liable for malversation if such funds were lost or otherwise misappropriated by another. It can be committed either with malice or through negligence or imprudence. This is one crime in the Revised Penal Code where the penalty is the same whether committed with dolo or through culpa. The nature of the duties of the public officer, not the name of the office, is controlling. The funds or property must be received in an official capacity. Otherwise, the crime committed is estafa. If the public officer is not accountable for the funds or property but someone else is, the crime committed is theft or qualified theft if there is an abuse of confidence. Returning the malversed funds is not exempting, it is only mitigating. A person whose negligence made possible the commission of malversation by another can be held liable as a principal by indispensable cooperation Demand as well as damage to the government are not necessary elements A private person may also commit malversation under the following situations: (1) Conspiracy with a public officer in committing malversation; (2) When he has become an accomplice or accessory to a public officer who commits malversation; (3) When the private person is made the custodian in whatever capacity of public funds or property, whether belonging to national or local government, and he misappropriates the same; (4) When he is constituted as the depositary or administrator of funds or property seized or attached by public authority even though said funds or property belong to a private individual. Technical malversation (Art. 220) (infra) is not included in the crime of malversation. Presumption of misappropriation: When a demand is made upon an accountable officer and he cannot produce the fund or property involved, there is a prima facie presumption that he had converted the same to his own use. There must be indubitable proof that thing unaccounted for exists. Audit should be made to determine if there was shortage. Audit must be complete and trustworthy. If there is doubt, presumption does not arise.
Persons liable: (1) Public officer who, directly or indirectly, became interested in any contract or business in which it was his official duty to intervene; (2) Experts, arbitrators, and private accountants who, in like manner, took part in any contract or transaction connected with the estate or property in the appraisal, distribution or adjudication of which they had acted; (3) Guardians and executors with respect to the property belonging to their wards or the estate. Fraud is not necessary. Intervention must be by virtue of the public office held. The basis here is the possibility that fraud may be committed or that the officer may place his own interest above that of the government or party he represents.
of
Mode 4.
Elements common to all modes: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) He had the custody or control of funds or property by reason of the duties of his office; (3) Those funds or property were public funds or property for which he was accountable; (4) He appropriated, took, misappropriated or consented or, through abandonment or negligence, permitted another person to take them. Malversation is also called embezzlement.
195
3. Article
219 - Failure of a Responsible Public Officer to Render Accounts Before Leaving the Country
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) He is an accountable officer for public funds or property; (3) He unlawfully leaves or attempts to leave the Philippine Islands without securing a certificate from the Commission on Audit showing that his accounts have been finally settled. The purpose of the law is to discourage responsible or accountable officers from leaving without first liquidating their accountability. It is not necessary that they really misappropriated public funds.
A routine government audit was conducted in WaAcons office and it was discovered that the sacks of rice entrusted to him for safekeeping were missing. Art 217 no longer requires proof by the State that the accused actually appropriated, took, or misappropriated public funds or property; instead, a presumption, though disputable and rebuttable, was installed upon demand by any duly authorized officer, the failure of a public officer to have duly forthcoming any public funds or property which said officer is accountable for should be prima facie evidence that he had put such missing funds or properties to personal use. [People v. Wa-Acon (2006)]
2. Article
Elements: (1) Offender is public officer, whether in the service or separated therefrom by resignation or any other cause; (2) He is an accountable officer for public funds or property;
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of
Public
Funds
or
Failing to make payment by a public officer who is under obligation to make such payment from government funds in his possession; Refusing to make delivery by a public officer who has been ordered by competent authority to deliver any property in his custody or under his administration.
Mode 2.
Elements: (1) Public officer has government funds in his possession; (2) He is under obligation to either: (a) make payment from such funds; (b) to deliver any property in his custody or under his administration (3) He maliciously fails to make the payment or refuses to make delivery. (4) He maliciously fails to make the payment.
Elements: (1) Offender is a private person; (2) The conveyance or custody of a prisoner or person under arrest is confided to him; (3) The prisoner or person under arrest escapes; (4) Offender consents to the escape, or that the escape takes place through his negligence. If the offender who aided or consented to the prisoners escaping from confinement, whether the prisoner is a convict or a detention prisoner, is not the custodian, the crime is delivering prisoners from jail under Article 156.
197
4. Article
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) He abstracts, destroys or conceals a document or papers; (3) Said document or papers should have been entrusted to such public officer by reason of his office; (4) Damage, whether serious or not, to a third party or to the public interest has been caused. Can only be committed by the public officer who is made the custodian of the document in his official capacity. If the officer was placed in possession of the document but it is not his duty to be the custodian thereof, this crime is not committed. The document must be complete and one by which a right could be established or an obligation could be extinguished. If the writings are mere forms, there is no crime. Damage to public interest is necessary. material damage is not necessary. However,
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) He knows of a secret by reason of his official capacity; (3) He reveals such secret without authority or justifiable reasons; (4) Damage, great or small, is caused to the public interest. Mode 2. Wrongfully delivering papers or copies of papers of which he may have charge and which should not be published.
Removal is consummated upon taking or secreting away of the document from its usual place. It is immaterial whether or not the illicit purpose of the offender has been accomplished. This could cover failure on the part of the post office to forward the letters to their destination. Damage in this article may consist in mere alarm to the public or in the alienation of its confidence in any branch of the government service.
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) He has charge of papers; (3) Those papers should not be published; (4) He delivers those papers or copies thereof to a third person; (5) The delivery is wrongful; (6) Damage is caused to public interest.
198
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) An order is issued by his superior for execution; (3) He has for any reason suspended the execution of such order; (4) His superior disapproves the suspension of the execution of the order; (5) Offender disobeys his superior despite the disapproval of the suspension. This does not apply if the order of the superior is illegal.
8. Article
Officers Private
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) He knows of the secrets of a private individual by reason of his office; (3) He reveals such secrets without authority or justifiable reason. Revelation to one person is sufficient. When the offender is a public attorney or a solicitor, the act of revealing the secret should not be covered by Art 209. Damage to private individual is not necessary. The reason for this provision is to uphold faith and trust in public service.
F. Chapter VI: Other Offenses or Irregularities by Public Officers 0. 1. Article 231 - Open Disobedience
Elements: (1) Officer is a judicial or executive officer; (2) There is a judgment, decision or order of a superior authority;
7. Article
Elements: (1) Offender is holding a public office; (2) The period provided by law, regulations or special provision for holding such office, has already expired; (3) He continues to exercise the duties and powers of such office. The offenders here can be those suspended, separated, declared over-aged, or dismissed.
199
9. Article
of
Elements: (1) Offender is an executive or judicial officer; (2) That he: (a) makes general rules or regulations beyond the scope of his authority; or (b) attempts to repeal a law; or (c) suspends the execution thereof. Arts 239-241 punish interference by public officers of the executive or judiciary with the functions of another department of government to keep them within legitimate confines of their respective jurisdictions.
200
10.
Elements: (1) Offender is a judge; (2) That he: (a) assumes a power pertaining to the executive authorities, or (b) obstructs the executive authorities in the lawful exercise of their powers.
11.
Elements: (1) Offender is an officer of the executive branch of the government; (2) That he: (a) assumes judicial powers, or (b) obstructs the execution of any order or decision rendered by any judge within his jurisdiction.
15.
Mode 1.
12.
Mode 2.
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) A proceeding is pending before such public officer; (3) There is a question brought before the proper authority regarding his jurisdiction, which is not yet decided; (4) He has been lawfully required to refrain from continuing the proceeding; (5) He continues the proceeding. The disobedient officer is liable even if the jurisdictional question is resolved in his favor.
Mode 3.
13.
Elements: (1) Offender is an executive officer; (2) He addresses any order or suggestion to any judicial authority; (3) The order or suggestion relates to any case or business coming within the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of justice. The purpose is to maintain the independence of the judiciary from executive dictations.
Elements: (1) Offender is a public officer; (2) He solicits or makes immoral or indecent advances to a woman; (3) Such woman is (a) interested in matters pending before the offender for decision, or with respect to which he is required to submit a report to or consult with a superior officer; or (b) under the custody of the offender who is a warden or other public officer directly charged with the care and custody of prisoners or persons under arrest; or (c) the wife, daughter, sister or relative within the same degree by affinity of the person in the custody of the offender. The crime is consummated by mere proposal.
14.
Unlawful
The mother of the person in the custody of the public officer is not included but the offender may be prosecuted under the Section 28 of RA 3019 (AntiGraft and Corrupt Practices Act).
201
202
203
In attempted or frustrated homicide, there is intent to kill. In physical injuries, there is none. However, if as a result of the physical injuries inflicted, the victim died, the crime will be homicide because the law presumes intent to kill and punishes the result, and not the intent of the act. The accused will, however, be entitled to the mitigating circumstance of lack of intent to commit so grave a wrong. Physical injuries sufficient to cause death are one of the essential elements of frustrated homicide. In accidental homicide wherein death of a person is brought about by a lawful act performed with proper care and skill and without homicidal intent, there is no liability. There is no offense of frustrated homicide through imprudence.
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5. Article
Giving assistance to suicide means giving means (arms, poison, etc.) or whatever manner of positive and direct cooperation (intellectual aid, suggestions regarding the mode of committing suicide, etc.). If the person does the killing himself, the penalty is similar to that of homicide, which is reclusion temporal. There can be no qualifying circumstance because the determination to die must come from the victim. The person attempting suicide is not liable. Reason: He should be pitied, not punished. This does not contemplate euthanasia or mercy killing where the crime is murder. (if without consent; with consent, covered by Article 253). Euthanasia is not lending assistance to suicide. In euthanasia, the victim is not in a position to commit suicide. A doctor who resorts to euthanasia of his patient may be liable for murder. But if the patient himself asks to be killed by his doctor, this Article applies.
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10.
ABORTION vs. INFANTICIDE ABORTION INFANTICIDE Fetus could not sustain Fetus could sustain an independent life. No independent life after legal viability. separation from the mothers womb. If the mother as a consequence of abortion suffers death or physical injuries, you have a complex crime of murder or physical injuries and abortion. In intentional abortion, the offender must know of the pregnancy because the particular criminal intent is to cause an abortion. If the woman turns out not to be pregnant and someone performs an abortion upon her, he is liable for an impossible crime if the woman suffers no physical injury. If she dies or suffers injuries, the crime will be homicide, serious physical injuries, etc. Frustrated abortion is committed if the fetus that is expelled is viable and, therefore, not dead as abortion did not result despite the employment of adequate and sufficient means to make the pregnant woman abort.
Elements: (1) A child was killed by the accused; (2) The deceased child was less than 3 days old. If the offender is the parent and the victim is less than three days old, the crime is infanticide and not parricide. The fact that the killing was done to conceal her dishonor will not mitigate the criminal liability anymore because concealment of dishonor in killing the child is not mitigating in parricide. Only the mother and maternal grandparents of the child are entitled to the mitigating circumstance of concealing the dishonor. Concealment of dishonor is not an element of infanticide. It merely lowers the penalty. A stranger who cooperates in the perpetration of infanticide committed by the mother or grandparent on the mothers side, is liable for infanticide, but he must suffer the penalty prescribed for murder. If the child is abandoned without any intent to kill and death results as a consequence, the crime committed is not infanticide but abandonment under Article 276.
12.
Article Abortion
257
Unintentional
(asked 3 times) Elements: (1) There is a pregnant woman; (2) Violence is used upon such pregnant woman without intending an abortion; (3) The violence is intentionally exerted; (4) Result of violence fetus dies, either in the womb or expelled therefrom Unintentional abortion requires physical violence inflicted deliberately and voluntarily by a third person upon the pregnant woman, without intention to cause the abortion. If the pregnant woman aborted because of intimidation, the crime committed is not unintentional abortion because there is no violence; the crime committed is light threats. If the pregnant woman was killed by violence by her husband, the crime committed is the complex crime of parricide with unlawful abortion. Unintentional abortion may be committed through negligence as it is enough that the use of violence be voluntary. If the act of violence is not felonious, that is, act of self-defense, and there is no knowledge of the womans pregnancy, there is no liability.
11.
Article Abortion
256
Intentional
Elements: (1) There is a pregnant woman; (2) Violence is exerted, or drugs or beverages administered, or that the accused otherwise acts upon such pregnant woman; (3) As a result of the use of violence or drugs or beverages upon her, or any other act of the accused, the fetus dies, either in the womb or after having been expelled therefrom; (4) The abortion is intended. Ways of committing intentional abortion (1) Using any violence upon the person of the pregnant woman; (2) Acting, but without using violence, without the consent of the woman. (By administering drugs or beverages upon such pregnant woman without her consent.)
206
Jose is declared guilty of the crime of unintentional abortion through reckless imprudence for having bumped a calesa which resulted in a pregnant woman bumping her abdomen against the wall of the calesa and eventually led to an abortion. [People v. Jose] Mere boxing of the stomach taken together with the immediate strangling of the victim in a fight, is not sufficient proof to show an intent to cause abortion. The accused must have merely intended to kill the victim but not necessarily to cause abortion. The accused is liable for complex crime of parricide with unintentional abortion for it was merely incidental to the killing. [People v. Salufrania (1988)] For the crime of abortion, even unintentional, to be held committed, the accused must have known of the pregnancy. [People v. Carnaso]
15.
Mode 1:
Mode 2: Inflicting upon such adversary physical injuries; Mode 3: Making a combat although no physical injuries have been inflicted. Persons liable (1) The person who killed or inflicted physical injuries upon his adversary, or both combatants in any other case, as principals. (2) The seconds, as accomplices. Duel is a formal or regular combat previously consented to by two parties in the presence of two or more seconds of lawful age on each side, who make the selection of arms and fix all the other conditions of the fight to settle some antecedent quarrel. There is no such crime nowadays because people hit each other even without entering into any preconceived agreement. This is an obsolete provision. If these are not the conditions of the fight, it is not a duel in the sense contemplated in the Revised Penal Code. It will be a quarrel and anyone who killed the other will be liable for homicide or murder, as the case may be.
13.
Elements: (1) There is a pregnant woman who has suffered an abortion; (2) Abortion is intended; (3) Abortion is caused by (a) The pregnant woman herself; (b) Any other person, with her consent; or (c) Any of her parents, with her consent for the purpose of concealing her dishonour. If the purpose of abortion is to conceal dishonor, mitigation applies only to pregnant woman and not to parents of pregnant woman, unlike in infanticide. If the purpose of parents is not to conceal dishonor, the crime is intentional abortion.
16.
14.
Mode 1. Challenging another to a duel; Mode 2. Inciting another to give or accept a challenge to a duel; Mode 3. Scoffing at or decrying another publicly for having refused to accept a challenge to fight a duel. Persons Responsible under Art. 261: (1) Challenger (2) Instigators If one challenges another to a duel by shouting Come down, Olympia, let us measure your prowess. We will see whose intestines will come out. You are a coward if you do not come down, the crime of challenging to a duel is not committed.
Elements: (1) There is a pregnant woman who has suffered an abortion; (2) The abortion is intended; (3) Offender, who must be a physician or midwife, caused or assisted in causing the abortion; (4) Said physician or midwife took advantage of his or her scientific knowledge or skill. If the abortion is produced by a physician to save the life of the mother, there is no liability.
207
3. Article
Elements: (1) There be a castration, that is, mutilation of organs necessary for generation, such as the penis or ovarium; (2) The mutilation is caused purposely and deliberately Mode 2. Intentionally making other mutilation, that is, by lopping or clipping off any part of the body of the offended party, other than the essential organ for reproduction, to deprive him of that part of his body. (Mayhem)
Elements: (1) Offender inflicted upon another any serious physical injury; (2) It was done by knowingly administering to him any injurious substance or beverages or by taking advantage of his weakness of mind or credulity; (3) He had no intent to kill. Physical Injuries vs. Attempted or Frustrated homicide Physical Injuries Attempted or Frustrated homicide The offender inflicts Attempted homicide may physical injuries. be committed, even if no physical injuries are inflicted. Offender has no intent The offender has an to kill the offended party intent to kill the offended party. The reason why there is no attempted or frustrated crime of physical injuries is because this felony is defined by the gravity of the injury. It is a crime of result. As long as there is no injury, there can be no attempted or frustrated stage thereof. Classification of physical injuries: (1) Between less serious physical injuries and serious physical injuries, you do not consider the period of medical treatment. You only consider the period when the offended party is rendered incapacitated for labor. (2) When the injury created a deformity upon the offended party, you disregard the healing duration or the period of medical treatment involved. At once, it is considered serious physical injuries. (3) Deformity requires the concurrence of the following conditions: (a) The injury must produce ugliness; (b) It must be visible; (c) The ugliness will not disappear through natural healing process. Illustration:
Intent to mutilate must be established. If there is no intent, the crime is only serious physical injury. CASTRATION - intentionally mutilating another by depriving him, either totally or partially, of some essential organ for reproduction MAYHEM - intentionally making other mutilation other than some essential organ for reproduction and to deprive him of that part of the body
208
5. Article
Mode 1.
Elements: (1) Offender is a man; (2) Offender had carnal knowledge of a woman; (3) Such act is accomplished under any of the following circumstances: (a) By using force, threat or intimidation; (b) When the woman is deprived of reason or is otherwise unconscious; (c) By means of fraudulent machination or grave abuse of authority; (d) When the woman is under 12 years of age (Statutory Rape) or is demented. Mode 2: Rape Through Sexual Assault Elements: (1) Offender commits an act of sexual assault; (2) The act of sexual assault is committed by any of the following means: (a) By inserting his penis into another person's mouth or anal orifice; or (b) By inserting any instrument or object into the genital or anal orifice of
Mode 2.
Mode 3.
This involves even ill-treatment where there is no sign of injury requiring medical treatment.
209
Classification of rape
(1) Traditional Rape Offended party is always a woman Offender is always a man. (2) Sexual assault Rape can now be committed by a man or a woman, that is, if a woman or a man uses an instrument on anal orifice of male, she or he can be liable for rape. Inserting a finger inside the genital of a woman is rape through sexual assault within the context of object. Penalties Traditional Rape Sexual Assault In general: Reclusion In general: Prision perpetua mayor A. Committed: 1) with the use of a deadly weapon; or 2) by 2 or more persons Reclusion perpetua to Prision mayor to death reclusion temporal B. Victim becomes insane by reason or on the occasion of rape Reclusion perpetua to Reclusion temporal death C. Rape is attempted & homicide is committed by reason or on the occasion thereof Reclusion perpetua to Reclusion temporal to death reclusion perpetua D. Rape is consummated & homicide is committed by reason or on the occasion thereof (a special complex crime) Death Reclusion perpetua
Marriage extinguishes the penal action only as to the principal (the person who married the victim), and cannot be extended to coprincipals in case of MULTIPLE RAPE Marital rape recognized
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Complete penetration is NOT necessary. The slightest penetrationcontact with the labiawill consummate the rape. Rape must have specific intent or lewd design. A soldier raped a 19-year old student by poking a knife on her neck. Only a portion of his penis entered her vagina because the victim kept on struggling until she was able to escape. The accused was convicted of frustrated rape. There is NO crime of FRUSTRATED RAPE because in rape, from the moment the offender has carnal knowledge of the victim, he actually attains his purpose, all the essential elements of the offense have been accomplished. [People v. Orita] The accused had his pants down and was on top of the 4-year old child when the childs mother arrived. Medical findings showed no signs of genital injury and the victims hymen was intact. For rape to be consummated, a slight brush or scrape of the penis on the external layer of the vagina will not suffice. Mere touching of the external layer of the vagina without the intent to enter the same cannot be construed as slight penetration. Accused is only liable for ATTEMPTED RAPE. Conviction does not require a medico-legal finding of any penetration on the part of the woman. Force employed against the victim of the rape need not be of such character as could be resisted. When the offender has an ascendancy or influence over the girl, it is not necessary that she put up a determined resistance. A rape victim does not have the burden of proving resistance. Rape by means of fraudulent machinations and grave abuse of authority absorbs the crime of qualified and simple seduction. Statutory rape is consummated when the victim is below 12 yrs. old. Victims consent is immaterial. Offenders knowledge of the victims age is immaterial in statutory rape. Carnal knowledge of a child below 12 yrs. old even if she is engaged in prostitution is still considered statutory rape. [People v. Campuhan] A 16-year old mental retardate, who has the intellectual capacity of a 9, was repeatedly raped by the accused. The accused was found guilty of raping a woman deprived of reason or otherwise unconscious, and was also held liable for rape under the provision that pertains to a victim under 12 notwithstanding the victims actual age.
A stepfather, who exercises moral and physical ascendancy over his stepdaughter, need not make any threat against her because the latter is cowed into submission when gripped with the fear of refusing the advances of a person she customarily obeys. Rape may, likewise, be committed in a room adjacent to where the victim's family is sleeping, or even in a room shared with other people. There is no rule that rape can only be committed in seclusion. [People v. Glivano (2008)] Rape Physical resistance need not be established in rape when intimidation is exercised upon the victim who submits against her will to the rapists lust because of fear for her life or personal safety. The force, violence or intimidation in rape is a relative term, depending not only on the age, size, and strength of the parties but also on their relationship with each other. Because of the victims youthfulness, coupled with the fact that the assailant is her stepfather, it was easy for her to believe that appellant would make good his threat to kill her should she resist. [People v. Tuazon (2007)] Rape An information is valid as long as it distinctly states the elements of the offense and the acts or omissions constitutive thereof. The precise time or date of the commission of an offense need not be alleged in the complaint or information, unless it is an essential element of the crime charged. In rape, it is not. The gravamen of rape is carnal knowledge of a woman through force and intimidation. In fact, the precise time when the rape takes place has no substantial bearing on its commission. As such, the date or time need not be stated with absolute accuracy. It is sufficient that the complaint or information states that the crime has been committed at any time as near as possible to the date of its actual commission. [People v. Domingo (2007)] Rape BY a Minor The accused at the time of the commission of the offense was only 13 years old and it occurred prior to RA 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006. The subsequently enacted law should be construed to retroact in favor of the accused. While the latter is now 25 years old as of this decision, he is still exculpated from criminal liability.
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212
213
Where the evident purpose of taking the victim was to kill him, and from the acts of the accused it cannot be inferred that the latters purpose was to actually detain or deprive the victim of his liberty, the subsequent killing of the victim did not constitute the crime of kidnapping. The demand for ransom did not convert the crime into kidnapping, since no deprivation of liberty was involved. [People v Padica (1993)] The essence of kidnapping is the actual deprivation of the victims liberty coupled with the intent of the accused to effect it. [People v Luartes (1999)] The duration of the detention even if only for a few hours does not alter the nature of the crime committed. [People v Pavillare (2000)] Physical detention is not necessary. It is enough that the victim is under the complete control of the perpetrators as in this case when the Japanese victim had to rely on his abductors for survival after he was tricked into believing that the police was after him. It was also held in this case that keeping a person as collateral for payment of an obligation is kidnapping. [People v. Tomio] The elements of kidnapping for ransom under Article 267 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC), as amended by Republic Act (R.A.) 7659 warranting the imposition of the death penalty, are as follows: (1) intent on the part of the accused to deprive the victim of his liberty; (2) actual deprivation of the victim of his liberty; and (3) motive of the accused, which is extorting ransom for the release of the victim. Neither actual demand for nor payment of ransom is necessary for the consummation of the felony. It is sufficient that the deprivation of liberty was for extorting ransom even if none of the four circumstances mentioned in Article 267 were present in its perpetration. [People v. Cenahonon (2007)]
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2. Article
268 Detention
Slight
Illegal
Elements: (PrIKO) (1) Offender is a private individual; (2) He kidnaps or detains another, or in any other manner deprives him of his liberty. (3) The act of kidnapping or detention is illegal; (4) The crime is committed without the attendance of any of the circumstances enumerated in Article 267. This felony is committed if any of the five circumstances in the commission of kidnapping or detention enumerated in Article 267 is not present. The penalty is lowered if: (1) The offended party is voluntarily released within three days from the start of illegal detention; (2) Without attaining the purpose; (3) Before the institution of the criminal action. The prevailing rule now is Asistio v. Judge, which provides that voluntary release will only mitigate criminal liability if crime was slight illegal detention. If serious, it has no effect. The liability of one who furnishes the place where the offended party is being held captive is that of a principal and not of an accomplice.
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216
The ruling that the intent to kill is presumed from the death of the victim of the crime is applicable only to crimes against persons, and not to crimes against security, particularly the crime of abandoning a minor under Art. 276.
MODE 1:
Delivering a minor to a public institution or other persons without the consent of the one who entrusted such minor to the care of the offender or, in the absence of that one, without the consent of the proper authorities;
Elements: (UWOF) (1) The place is not inhabited; (2) Accused found there a person wounded or in danger of dying; (3) Accused can render assistance without detriment to himself; (4) Accused fails to render assistance. MODE 2: Failing to help or render assistance to another whom the offender has accidentally wounded or injured; (FA) By failing to deliver a child, under seven years of age, whom the offender has found abandoned, to the authorities or to his family, or by failing to deliver him to a safe place. (SAD)
Elements: (1) Offender has charge of the rearing or education of a minor; (2) He delivers said minor to a public institution or other persons; (3) The one who entrusted such child to the offender has not consented to such act; or if the one who entrusted such child to the offender is absent, the proper authorities have not consented to it. MODE 2. Neglecting his (offenders) children by not giving them the education which their station in life requires and financial condition permits.
MODE 3:
Does not apply: When a person intentionally wounds another and leaves him in an uninhabited place. Immaterial: That the offender did not know that the child is under seven years.
Elements: (1) Offender is a parent; (2) He neglects his children by not giving them education; (3) His station in life requires such education and his financial condition permits it. ABANDONMENT OF MINOR BY PERSONS ENTRUSTED WITH CUSTODY (ART. 277) The custody of the offender is specific, that is, the custody for the rearing or education of the minor Minor is under 18 yrs. of age Minor is delivered to a public institution or other person ABANDONMENT OF MINOR (ART. 276) The custody of the offender is stated in general
Minor is under 7 years of age Minor is abandoned in such a way as to deprive him of the care and protection that his tender years need
4. Article
Minors
278
Exploitation
of
217
Mode 2.
Mode 3.
Mode 4.
Mode 5.
Circumstance qualifying the offense: (1) If the delivery of the child to any person following any of the calling of acrobat, gymnast, rope-walker, diver, wild-animal tamer or circus manager or to any habitual vagrant or beggar is made in consideration of any price, compensation or promise, the penalty is higher. (2) The offender is engaged in a kind of business that would place the life or limb of the minor in danger, even though working for him is not against the will of the minor. Nature of the Business: this involves circuses which generally attract children so they themselves may enjoy working there unaware of the danger to their own lives and limbs. Age: Must be below 16 years. Article 278 has no application if minor is 16 years old and above, but the exploitation will be dealt with by RA 7610.
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No overt act of the crime intended to be committed: Crime is trespass to dwelling. Examples of trespass by means of violence: (1) Pushing the door violently and maltreating the occupants after entering. (2) Cutting of a ribbon or string with which the door latch of a closed room was fastened. The cutting of the fastenings of the door was an act of violence. (3) Wounding by means of a bolo, the owner of the house immediately after entrance Examples of trespass by means of intimidation: (1) Firing a revolver in the air by persons attempting to force their way into a house. (2) The flourishing of a bolo against inmates of the house upon gaining an entrance
Threatening another with the infliction upon his person, honor or property or that of his family of any wrong amounting to a crime, the threat not being subject to a condition.
Elements: (1) That the offender threatens another person with the infliction upon the latters person, honor or property, or upon that of the latters family, of any wrong. (2) That such wrong amounts to a crime. (3) That the threat is not subject to a condition. Qualifying Circumstance: If threat was made (1) in writing OR (2) through a middleman. It is essential that there be intimidation. It is not necessary that the offended party was present at the time the threats were made. It is sufficient that the threats came to his knowledge. When consummated: As soon as the threats came to the knowledge of the offended party.
Act constituting the crime is entering the dwelling against the will of the owner
It is the entering the closed premises or the fenced estate without securing the permission of the owner or caretaker thereof Prohibition to enter must be manifest
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10.
Mode 1.
Article Threats
285
Other
Light
Threatening another with a weapon, or by drawing such weapon in a quarrel, unless it be in lawful selfdefense; Orally threatening another, in the heat of anger, with some harm constituting a crime, without persisting in the idea involved in his threat; Orally threatening to do another any harm not constituting a felony.
Mode 2.
Mode 3.
Under the first type, the subsequent acts of the offender must show that he did not persist in the idea involved in the threat. Threats which are ordinarily grave threats, if made in the heat of anger, may be other light threats. If the threats are directed to a person who is absent and uttered in a temporary fit of anger, the offense is only other light threats.
11.
Mode 1.
(asked 8 times)
Mode 2.
Elements: (1) A person prevented another from doing something not prohibited by law, or that he compelled him to do something against his will; be it right or wrong; (2) The prevention or compulsion be effected by violence, threats or intimidation; and (3) The person that restrained the will and liberty of another had not the authority of law or the right to do so, or in other words,
12.
Elements: (1) Offender must be a creditor; (2) He seizes anything belonging to his debtor: (3) The seizure of the thing be accomplished by means of violence or a display of material force producing intimidation; (4) The purpose of the offender is to apply the
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Deals with light coercions wherein violence is employed by the offender who is a creditor in seizing anything belonging to his debtor for the purpose of applying the same to the payment of the debt. Unjust Vexation: Any act committed without violence, but which unjustifiably annoys or vexes an innocent person amounts to light coercion. It should include any human conduct which, although not productive of some physical or material harm would, however, unjustifiably annoy or vex an innocent person. Unjust Vexation is distinguished from grave coercion by the absence of violence.
14.
Article 289 - Formation, Maintenance, and Prohibition of Combination of Capital or Labor through Violence or Threats
13.
Elements: (1) Offender employs violence or threats, in such a degree as to compel or force the laborers or employers in the free and legal exercise of their industry or work; (2) The purpose is to organize, maintain or prevent coalitions of capital or labor, strike of laborers or lockout of employers. Repealed by the Labor Code.
Mode 1.
Elements: (1) Offender is any person, agent or officer of any association or corporation; (2) He or such firm or corporation has employed laborers or employees; (3) He forces or compels, directly or indirectly, or knowingly permits to be forced or compelled, any of his or its laborers or employees to purchase merchandise or commodities of any kind from him or from said firm or corporation. Mode 2. Paying the wages due his laborer or employee by means of tokens or object other than the legal tender currency of the Philippines, unless expressly requested by such laborer or employee.
C. Chapter III: Discovery and Revelation of Secrets 0. 1. Article 290 - Discovering Secrets
through Seizure Correspondence of
Elements: (1) Offender is a private individual or even a public officer not in the exercise of his official function; (2) He seizes the papers or letters of another; (3) The purpose is to discover the secrets of such another person; (4) Offender is informed of the contents of the papers or letters seized. This is a crime against the security of ones papers and effects. The purpose must be to discover its effects. The act violates the privacy of communication. According to Dean Ortega, it is not necessary that the offender should actually discover the contents of the letter. Reyes, citing People v. Singh, CA, 40 OG, Suppl. 5, 35, believes otherwise. The last paragraph of Article 290 expressly makes the provision of the first and second paragraph thereof inapplicable to parents, guardians, or persons entrusted with the custody of minors placed under their care or custody, and to the spouses with respect to the papers or letters of either of them. The teachers or other persons entrusted with the care and education of minors are included in the exceptions. Distinction from estafa, damage to property, and unjust vexation:
Elements: (1) Offender pays the wages due a laborer or employee employed by him by means of tokens or object; (2) Those tokens or objects are other than the legal tender currency of the Philippines; (3) Such employee or laborer does not expressly request that he be paid by means of tokens or objects. General rule: wages shall be paid in legal tender and the use of tokens, promissory notes, vouchers, coupons or any other forms alleged to represent legal tender is absolutely prohibited even when expressly requested by the employee. (Section 1, Rule VIII, Book III, Omnibus Rules Implementing the Labor Code)
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3. Article
Revelation
of
Elements: (1) Offender is a person in charge, employee or workman of a manufacturing or industrial establishment; (2) The manufacturing or industrial establishment has a secret of the industry which the offender has learned; (3) Offender reveals such secrets; (4) Prejudice is caused to the owner. Secrets must relate to manufacturing processes. The act constituting the crime is revealing the secret of the industry which the offender has learned.
(3) Article 329 - Other Mischiefs (4) Article 330 - Damage and Obstruction to Means of Communication (5) Article 331 - Destroying or Damaging Statues, Public Monuments or Paintings Chapter 10: Exemption from Criminal Liability (1) Article 332 - Exemption from Criminal Liability in Crimes Against Property
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3. Article
Robbery with violence against or intimidation or persons is qualified when it is committed: (1) In an Uninhabited place, or (2) By a Band, or (3) By Attacking a moving train, street car, motor vehicle, or airship, or (4) By Entering the passengers compartments in a train, or in any manner taking the passengers thereof by surprise in the respective conveyances, or
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5. Article
(asked 4 times)
The intimidation with the use of firearm qualifies only robbery on a street, road, highway, or alley.
Homicide includes multiple homicides, murder, parricide, or even infanticide. The penalty is the same, whether robbery is attempted or frustrated. Robbery with homicide and attempted or frustrated robbery with homicide are special complex crimes, not governed by Art. 48, but by the special provisions of Arts. 294 & 297, respectively. There is only one crime of attempted robbery with homicide even if slight physical injuries were inflicted on other persons on the occasion or by reason of the robbery.
the
Outline of Art. 296: When at least 4 armed malefactors take part in the commission of a robbery, it is deemed committed by a band. When any of the arms used in the commission of robbery is not licensed, penalty upon all the malefactors shall be the maximum of the corresponding penalty provided by law, without prejudice to the criminal liability for illegal possession of such firearms. Any member of a band who was present at the commission of a robbery by the band, shall be punished as principal of any of the assaults committed by the band, unless it be shown that he attempted to prevent the crime. Requisites for Liability for the acts of the other members: (1) Member of the band. (2) Present at the commission of the robbery. (3) Other members committed an assault. (4) He did not attempt to prevent assault. Conspiracy is presumed when robbery is by band. There is no crime as robbery with homicide in band. Band is only ordinary aggravating circumstance in robbery w/ homicide In order that special aggravating circumstance of unlicensed firearm be appreciated, it is condition sine qua non that offense charged be robbery by a band under Art 295. Pursuant to Art 295, circumstance of a band is qualifying only in robbery under par 3, 4 & 5 of Art 294. Hence, Art. 295 does not apply to robbery with homicide, or robbery with rape, or robbery with serious physical injuries under par. 1 of Art. 263. Special aggravating circumstance of unlicensed firearm is inapplicable to robbery w/ homicide, or
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226
Robbery in a store Punishable under Art. 299 If the store is used as a dwelling, the robbery committed therein would be considered as committed in an inhabited house (People v Suarez) If the store is located on the ground floor of the house belonging to the owner, having an interior entrance connected therewith, it is a dependency of an inhabited house and the robbery committed therein (US v Tapan).
Punishable under Art. 302 If the store was not actually occupied at the time of the robbery and was not used as a dwelling, since the owner lived in a separate house, the robbery committed therein (People v Silvestre)
10.
Article 303 - Robbery of Cereals, Fruits or Firewood in an Inhabited Place or Private Building
The penalty is one degree lower only when robbery is committed by use of force upon things, without intimidation or violence against a person. Cereals are seedlings which are the immediate product of the soil. The palay must be kept by the owner as seedling or taken for that purpose by the robbers.
11.
Elements: (1) Offender has in his possession Picklocks or similar tools; (2) Such picklock or similar tools are especially Adopted to the commission of robbery; (3) Offender does Not have lawful cause for such possession.
12.
TO INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: (1) Tools mentioned in Article 304; (2) Genuine keys Stolen from the owner; (3) Any key other than those intended by the owner for Use in the lock forcibly opened by the offender.
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Proof
It is necessary to prove that the band actually committed the robbery. Conspiracy to commit robbery is not punishable.
228
The property stolen consists of coconuts taken from the premises of a: (1) plantation (2) The property stolen is fish taken from a fishpond or fishery (3) The property is taken on the occasion of fire, earthquake, typhoon, volcanic eruption, or any other calamity, vehicular accident or civil disturbance. The penalty for qualified theft is 2 degrees higher.
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Considering that the gravamen of the crime is the taking or killing of large cattle or taking its meat or hide without the consent of the owner or raiser, conviction for the same need only be supported by the fact of taking without the cattle owners consent. There is a disputable presumption that a person found in possession of a thing taken in the doing of a recent wrongful act is the taker and the doer of the whole act. [Ernesto Pil-ey vs. People (2007)] PD 704: ILLEGAL FISHING Prima facie presumption of illegal fishing when: (1) Explosive, obnoxious or poisonous substance or equipment or device for electric fishing are found in the fishing boat or in the possession of fisherman; or (2) When fish caught with the use of explosives, obnoxious or poisonous substances or by electricity are found in a fishing boat PD 1612: Anti-Fencing Law Fencing: (1) the act of any person who, (2) with intent to gain for himself or for another, (3) shall buy, receive, keep, acquire, conceal, sell, or dispose of, or shall buy and sell or in any other manner deal in (4) any article, item, object, or anything of value (5) which he knows, or should be known to him, (6) to have been derived from the proceeds of the crime of robbery or theft. Elements: (1) Robbery or theft has been committed. (2) The accused, who is not a principal or accomplice in the crime of robbery or theft, buys, receives, possesses, keeps, acquires, conceals, sells or disposes, or buys and sells, or in any manner deals in any article, item, object, or anything of value, which has been derived from the proceeds of the said crime. (3) The accused knows or should have known that the said article, item, object or anything of value has been derived from the proceeds of the crime of robbery or theft. (4) There is, on the part of the accused, intent to gain for himself or another. Mere possession of any good, article, item, object, or anything of value which has been the subject of robbery or thievery shall be prima facie evidence of fencing. [People v. Dizon-Pamintuan] Robbery/theft and fencing are separate and distinct offenses.
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and
Theft of property of the National Museum and National Library has a fixed penalty regardless of its value. But if it was with grave abuse of confidence, the penalty for qualified theft shall be imposed.
Elements: (1) Offender takes possession of any real property OR usurps any real rights in property (2) Real property or real rights belong to another (3) Violence against or intimidation of persons is used by the offender in occupying real property or usurping real rights in property. (4) There is intent to gain. If no violence or intimidation only civil liability exists. Violence or intimidation must be the means used in occupying real property or in usurping real rights. Art. 312 does not apply when the violence or intimidation took place subsequent to the entry into the property. Art. 312 does not apply to a case of open defiance of the writ of execution issued in the forcible entry case. Criminal action for usurpation of real property is not a bar to civil action for forcible entry. Act What Taken Intent is Usurpation Occupation or Usurpation Real property or Real Right To Gain Theft or Robbery Taking or asportation Personal property To Gain
RA 947 punishes entering or occupying public agricultural land including lands granted to private individuals.
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232
But when the money or property had been received by a partner for specific purpose and he misappropriated it, there is estafa. Under the 4th element of estafa with abuse of confidence demand may be required. In estafa by means of deceit, demand is not needed, because the offender obtains the thing wrongfully from the start. In estafa with abuse of confidence, the offender receives the thing under a lawful transaction. Demand is not required by law, but it may be necessary, because failure to account upon demand is circumstantial evidence of misappropriation. Presumption arises only when the explanation of the accused is absolutely devoid of merit. The mere failure to return the thing received for safekeeping or under any other obligation w/ the duty to return the same or deliver the value thereof to the owner could only give rise to a civil action and does not constitute the crime of estafa. There is no estafa through negligence. The gravity of the crime of estafa is based on the amount not returned before the institution of the criminal action. Test to distinguish theft from estafa: In theft, upon the delivery of the thing to the offender, the owner expects a return of the thing to him. General rule: When the owner does not expect the immediate return of the thing he delivered to the accused, the misappropriation of the same is estafa. Exception: When the offender received the thing from the offended party, with the obligation to deliver it to a third person and, instead of doing so, misappropriated it to the prejudice of the owner, the crime committed is qualified theft. Sale of thing received to be pledged for owner is theft, when the intent to appropriate existed at the time it was received. Estafa with abuse of Malversation confidence Entrusted with funds or property Both are continuing offenses Funds or property are Funds or property always private usually public
Converting: Using or disposing of anothers property as if it were ones own. Conversion: presupposes that the thing has been devoted to a purpose or use different from that agreed upon. The fact that an agent sold the thing received on commission for a lower price than the one fixed, does not constitute estafa (US v Torres). The law does not distinguish between temporary and permanent misappropriations. No estafa under Art. 315 par (b) when there is neither misappropriation nor conversion. Right of agent to deduct commission from amounts (1) If agent is authorized to retain his commission out of the amounts he collected, there is no estafa. (2) Otherwise he is guilty of estafa, because his right to commission does not make the agent a co-owner of money 3rd element of estafa with abuse of confidence is that the conversion, or denial by offender resulted in the prejudice of the offended party. To the prejudice of another: not necessarily of the owner of the property. General rule: Partners are not liable for estafa of money or property received for the partnership when the business commenced and profits accrued. Failure of partner to account for partnership funds may give rise to civil obligation only, not estafa. Exception: when a partner misappropriates the share of another partner in the profits, the act constitutes estafa. A co-owner is not liable for estafa, but he is liable if, after the termination of the co-ownership, he
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When in prosecution for malversation the public officer is acquitted, the private individual in conspiracy w/ him may be held liable for estafa, depending on the nature of the funds. Misappropriation of firearms received by a police (1) ESTAFA: if it is not involved in the commission of a crime (2) MALVERSATION: if it is involved in the commission of a crime. Par.1(c): Taking advantage of signature in blank
Elements: (1) Paper with the signature of the offended party be in Blank. (2) Offended party should have Delivered it to the offender. (3) That above the signature of the offended party a Document is written by the offender without authority to do so. (4) That the document so written Creates a liability of, or causes damage to, the offended party or any third person.
b. Estafa by Means of False Pretenses or Fraudulent Acts (315 par. 2(a) (b) (c) (d) (e); BP22):
Elements of estafa by means of deceit: (1) There must be a False pretense, fraudulent act or fraudulent means. (2) That such false pretense, fraudulent act or fraudulent means must be made or executed Prior to or Simultaneously with the commission of the fraud. (3) Offended party must have Relied on the false pretense, fraudulent act, or fraudulent means, that is, he was induced to part with his money or property because of the false pretense, fraudulent act, or fraudulent means. (4) As a result thereof, the offended party Suffered damage. The acts must be fraudulent. Acts must be founded on, deceit, trick, or cheat, and such must be made
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20
AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION TWO, PARAGRAPH (d), ARTICLE THREE HUNDRED FIFTEEN OF ACT NUMBERED THIRTY-EIGHT HUNDRED AND FIFTEEN, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL CODE. (re: issuance of checks.) Section 1. Section Two, Paragraph (d), Article Three hundred fifteen of Act Numbered Thirty-eight hundred and fifteen is hereby amended to read as follows: "Sec. 2. By means of any of the following false pretenses or fraudulent acts executed prior to or simultaneously with the commission of the fraud: "(d) By postdating a check, or issuing a check in payment of an obligation when the offender had no funds in the bank, or his funds deposited therein were not sufficient to cover the amount of the check. The failure of the drawer of the check to deposit the amount necessary to cover his check within three (3) days from receipt of notice from the bank and/or the payee or holder that said check has been dishonored for lack or insufficiency of funds shall be prima facie evidence of deceit constituting false pretense or fraudulent act." Section 2. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. Approved: June 17, 1967
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Par.3 (c):
Elements: (1) That there be court Record, office files, documents or any other papers. (2) That the offender Removed, concealed or destroyed any of them. (3) That the offender had Intent to defraud another. If there is no malicious intent to defraud, the destruction of court record is malicious mischief. Elements of deceit and abuse of confidence may coexist. If there is neither deceit nor abuse of confidence, its not estafa, even if there is damage. There is only civil liability. Deceit through Fraudulent Means Offender is a private person OR a public person not entrusted w/ documents There is intent to defraud Infidelity in Custody of Documents Offender is a public person entrusted with the documents Intent to defraud is not required
Elements: (1) Offender Induced the offended party to sign a document. (2) That deceit be Employed to make him sign the document. (3) Offended party Personally signed the document. (4) That Prejudice be caused. Offender must induce the offended party to sign the document. If offended party is willing from the start
21
AMENDING ARTICLE 315 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE BY INCREASING THE PENALTIES FOR ESTAFA COMMITTED BY MEANS OF BOUNCING CHECKS Section 1. Any person who shall defraud another by means of false pretenses or fraudulent acts as defined in paragraph 2(d) of Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by Republic Act No. 4885, shall be punished by: 1st. The penalty of reclusion temporal if the amount of the fraud is over 12,000 pesos but not exceed 22,000 pesos, and if such amount exceeds the latter sum, the penalty provided in this paragraph shall be imposed in its maximum period, adding one year for each additional 10,000 pesos but the total penalty which may be imposed shall in no case exceed thirty years. In such cases, and in connection with the accessory penalties which may be imposed under the Revised Penal Code, the penalty shall be termed reclusion perpetua; 2nd. The penalty of prision mayor in its maximum period, if the amount of the fraud is over 6,000 pesos but does not exceed 12,000 pesos; 3rd. The penalty of prision mayor in its medium period, if such amount is over 200 pesos but does not exceed 6,000 pesos; and, 4th. By prision mayor in its maximum period, if such amount does not exceed 200 pesos. Section 2. This decree shall take effect immediately.
Double jeopardy does not apply because RPC is a distinct crime from BP 22. Deceit and damage are essential elements of RPC, which are not required in BP 22. [Nierras vs Dacuycuy (1990)] The element of damage or prejudice capable of pecuniary estimation may consist in: (1) The offended party being deprived of his money or property, as result of the fraud; (2) Disturbance in property right; or (3) Temporary prejudice Payment subsequent to the commission of estafa does not extinguish criminal liability or reduce the penalty. The crime of estafa is not obliterated by acceptance of promissory note. A private person who procures a loan by means of deceit through a falsified public document of
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There must be damage caused. It is not necessary that act prejudice the owner of the land. The omitted phrase as free from encumbrance in par 2 of Art. 316 is the basis of the ruling that silence as to such encumbrance does not involve a crime. Par. 3. By wrongfully taking by the owner of his personal property from its lawful possessor Elements: (1) Offender is the Owner of personal property. (2) Said property is in the Lawful possession of another. (3) Offender wrongfully takes it from its lawful possessor. (4) Prejudice is thereby caused to the lawful possessor or third person. Offender must wrongfully take the personal property from the lawful possessor. Wrongfully take does not include the use of violence, intimidation. If the thing is taken by means of violence, without intent to gain, it is not estafa, but grave coercion. If the owner took the personal property from its lawful possessor without the latters knowledge and later charged him with the value of the property, the crime is theft. If there is intent to charge the bailee with its value, the crime is robbery. [US v Albao] Par. 4. By executing any fictitious contract to the prejudice of another Illustration: A person who simulates a conveyance of his property to another, to defraud his creditors. If the conveyance is real and not simulated, the crime is fraudulent insolvency. Par. 5. By accepting any compensation for services not rendered or for labor not performed Elements: (1) Accepting a compensation given to accused for service not rendered (2) Malicious failure to return the compensation wrongfully received (fraud) There must be fraud. Otherwise, it will only be solutio indebiti, with civil obligation to return the wrong payment. If the money in payment of a debt was delivered to a wrong person, Art. 316 par 5 is not applicable.
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Committed by damaging any railway, telegraph, or telephone lines. If the damage shall result in any derailment of cars, collision, or other accident, a higher penalty shall be imposed. (Qualifying Circumstance) Telegraph/phone lines must pertain to railways. Q: What is the crime when, as a result of the damage caused to railway, certain passengers of the train are killed? A: It depends. Art. 330 says without prejudice to the criminal liability of the offender for other consequences of his criminal act. If there is no intent to kill, the crime is damages to means to means of communication with homicide because of the first paragraph of Art. 4 and Art. 48. If there is intent to kill, and damaging the railways was the means to accomplish the criminal purpose, the crime is murder
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5. Article
The penalty is lower if the thing destroyed is a public painting, rather than a public monument.
J. Chapter 10: Exemption from Criminal Liability 0. 1. Article 332 - Exemption from
Criminal Liability Against Property in
Crimes
Crimes involved in the exemption: (1) Theft (2) Swindling (estafa) (3) Malicious mischief If the crime is robbery, exemption does not lie. Persons exempt from criminal liability: (1) Spouses, ascendants and descendants, or relatives by affinity in the same line. (2) The widowed spouse with respect to the property which belonged to the deceased spouse before the same passed into the possession of another. (3) Brothers and sisters and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, if living together. The law recognizes the presumed co-ownership of the property between the offender and the offended party. There is no criminal, but only civil liability. Art. 332 does not apply to a stranger who participates in the commission of the crime.
4. Article
Damage Means
and of
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Case:
BOUNCING CHECKS LAW Modes of committing violations of BP 22; Presumptions/Evidentiary Rules Cases: Rule of Preference in BP 22 violations: Court may impose imprisonment or a fine [Bernardo vs. People (2007)] Only a full payment of the face value of the second check at the time of its presentment or during the five-day grace period could exonerate one from criminal liability. [Macalalag vs. People (2006)]
Additional Notes
THEFT Presumption of thievery -- possession of stolen goods [People vs. Dela Cruz (2000)] No frustrated theft; Either attempted or consummated only [Valenzuela vs. People (2007)] QUALIFIED THEFT Related Laws (1) Anti-Carnapping Act of 1972 (RA 6539); (2) Anti-Cattle Rustling Law of 1974 (PD 533); (3) Heavier Penalties for Thefts by Employees and Laborers (PD 133); (4) Anti-Electricity Pilferage Act (RA 7832); (5) Some LGUs have anti-Cable Television Theft Ordinances. (6) Theft of Forestry Products (PD 330); (7) Theft of Minerals/Ores (PD 581); Cases: ESTAFA Theft by bank teller considered Qualified Theft [Roque vs. People (2004)] Grave abuse of confidence, requirements [Astudillo vs. People (2006)] Carnapping vs. Qualified Theft [People vs. Bustinera (2004)]
See Also: (1) PD 1612: Anti-Fencing Law (2) BP 22: Bouncing Check Law (3) RA 6539: Anti-Carnapping Act (4) RA 9372: Human Security Act (5) PD 1613: Anti-Arson Law
letters signed by the paramour, photos showing intimate relations, testimony of witnesses) Pardon by the H does not exempt the adulterous W and her paramour from criminal liability for adulterous acts committed subsequent to such pardon, because the pardon refers to previous and not to subsequent adulterous acts Effect of Pardon - applies to Concubinage as well: (1) The pardon must come before the institution of the criminal prosecution; and (2) Both the offenders must be pardoned by the offended party. Act of sexual intercourse subsequent to adulterous conduct is considered as an implied pardon. (3) Pardon of the offenders by the offended party is a bar to prosecution for adultery or concubinage. (4) Delay in the filing of complaint, if satisfactorily explained, does not indicate pardon. Effect of consent: The husband, knowing that his wife, after serving sentence for adultery, resumed living with her co-defendant, did nothing to interfere with their relations or to assert his rights as husband. The second charge of adultery should be dismissed because of consent. [People v. Sensano and Ramos] Agreement to separate may be used as evidence to show consent by the husband to the infidelity of his wife. Effect of death of paramour: Offending wife may still be prosecuted. The requirement that both offenders should be included in the complaint is absolute only when the two offenders are alive. Effect of death of offended party: The proceedings may continue. Art. 353 seeks to protect the honor and reputation not only of the living but of dead persons as well.
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4. Article
(asked 7 times)
336 Lasciviousness
Acts
of
Elements: (1) That the offender commits any act of lasciviousness or lewdness; (2) That the is committed against a person of either sex; (3) That is done under any of the ff. circumstances: (a) By using force or intimidation; or (b) When the offended party is deprived of reason or otherwise unconscious; (c) When the offended party is under 12 years of age or is demented. Lewd obscene, lustful, indecent, lecherous; signifies form of immorality which has relation to moral impurity or that which is carried in wanton manner Motive of lascivious acts is not important because the essence of lewdness is in the very act itself. Example: If the kissing etc. was done inside church (which is a public place), absence of lewd designs may be proven, and the crime is unjust vexation only. But if the kissing was done in the house of a woman when she was alone, the circumstances may prove the accuseds lewd designs. Absent any of the circumstances of rape under the 3rd element, the crime is UNJUST VEXATION. (e.g. touching of breast) Lascivious intent is implied from the nature of the act and the surrounding circumstances. Consider the act and the environment to distinguish between Acts of Lasciviousness and Attempted Rape. Desistance in the commission of attempted rape may constitute acts of lasciviousness. No attempted and frustrated acts of lasciviousness.
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The accused followed the victim, held her, embraced her, tore her dress, and tried to touch her breast. When a complaint for acts of lasciviousness was filed against him, accused claimed that he had no intention of having sexual intercourse with her and that he did the acts only as revenge. TC found the accused guilty of FRUSTRATED ACTS OF LASCIVIOUSNESS. SC held that there is no frustrated crime against chastity which includes acts of lasciviousness, adultery, and rape. [People v. Famularcano] From the moment the offender performs all the elements necessary for the existence of the felony, he actually attains his purpose. Motive of revenge is of no consequence since the element of lewdness is in the very act itself. Example: Compelling a girl to dance naked before a man is an act of lasciviousness, even if the dominant motive is revenge, for her failure to pay a debt.
his
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Domestic - a person usually living under the same roof, pertaining to the same house. Not necessary that the offender be the teacher of the offended party; it is sufficient that he is a teacher in the same school. Qualified seduction may also be committed by a master to his servant, or a head of the family to any of its members. Qualified seduction of a sister or descendant, also known as INCEST, is punished by a penalty next higher in degree. The age, reputation, or virginity of the sister or descendant is irrelevant. The relationship need not be legitimate. A 15-year old virgin, who was brought by her mother to the house of the accused and his wife to serve as a helper, repeatedly yielded to the carnal desires of the accused, as she was induced by his promises of marriage and frightened by his acts of intimidation. HELD: DECEIT, although an essential element of ordinary or simple seduction, does not need to be proved or established in a charge of qualified seduction. It is replaced by ABUSE OF CONFIDENCE. [People v. Fontanilla] The accused, a policeman, brought a 13-year old girl with low mentality, to the ABC Hall where he succeeded in having sexual intercourse with her. The complaint did not allege that the girl was a virgin. The accused was charged with RAPE but convicted of QUALIFIED SEDUCTION. HELD: Though it is true that virginity is presumed if the girl is over 12 but under 18, unmarried and of good reputation, virginity is still an essential element of the crime of qualified seduction and must be alleged in the complaint. Accused is guilty of RAPE, considering the victims age, mental abnormality and deficiency. There was also intimidation with the accused wearing his uniform. [Babanto v. Zosa] Perez succeeded in having sexual intercourse with Mendoza after he promised to marry her. As he did not make good on said promise, Mendoza filed a complaint for Consented Abduction. Trial Court found that the acts constituted seduction, acquitting him on the charge of Consented Abduction. Mendoza then filed a complaint for Qualified Seduction. Perez moved to dismiss the case on the grounds of double jeopardy.
Means:
Act: Wronged:
NOTE: The fact that the girl gave consent to the sexual intercourse is not a defense.
7. Article
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10.
Article Abduction
342
Forcible
Elements: (1) The person abducted is any woman, regardless of her age, civil status or reputation; (2) The abduction is against her will; (3) The abduction is with lewd designs. Abduction the taking away of a woman from her house or the place where she may be for the purpose of carrying her to another place with the intent to marry or to corrupt her. Two kinds of abduction: (1) Forcible abduction (Art. 342) (2) Consented abduction (Art. 343) Crimes against chastity where age and reputation are immaterial: (1) Acts of lasciviousness against the will or without the consent of the offended party (2) Qualified seduction of sister or descendant (3) Forcible abduction The taking away of the woman may be accomplished by means of deceit first and then by means of violence and intimidation. If the female abducted is under 12, the crime is forcible abduction, even if she voluntarily goes with her abductor. When the victim was abducted by the accused without lewd designs, but for the purpose of lending her to illicit intercourse with others, the crime is not abduction but corruption of minors.
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Rape may absorb forcible abduction, if the main objective was to rape the victim. Sexual intercourse is not necessary in forcible abduction. Lewd designs may be shown by the conduct of the accused. When there are several defendants, it is enough that one of them had lewd designs. Husband is not liable for abduction of his wife, as lewd design is wanting. Attempt to rape is absorbed in the crime of forcible abduction, thus there is no complex crime of forcible abduction with attempted rape. Nature of the crime - The act of the offender is violative of the individual liberty of the abducted, her honor and reputation, and public order. Forcible Abduction Grave Coercion There is violence or intimidation by the offender. The offended party is compelled to do something against her will. Abduction is No lewd design, characterized by lewd provided that there is design. no deprivation of liberty for an appreciable length of time. Forcible Abduction Purpose is to effect his lewd designs on the victim. Forcible Abduction There is deprivation of liberty and lewd designs. Corruption of Minors Purpose is to lend the victim to illicit intercourse with others. Serious Illegal Detention There is deprivation of liberty and no lewd designs. Commission of other crimes during confinement of victim is immaterial to the charge of kidnapping w/ serious illegal detention.
This is the Maggie Dela Riva story wherein Maggie was abducted and brought to a hotel, where the 4 accused took turns in raping her. HELD: While the first act of rape was being performed, the crime of forcible abduction had already been consummated, hence, forcible abduction can only be attached to the first act of rape, detached from the 3 subsequent acts of rape. The effect therefore would be one count of forcible abduction with rape and 4 counts of rape for each of the accused. [People v. Jose] The accused and 2 other men raped the victim. The victim was a jeepney passenger who was prevented from leaving the jeepney. She was taken to a remote place where she was raped. HELD: The accused is guilty of FORCIBLE ABDUCTION WITH RAPE. It was proven that the victim was taken against her will and with lewd design, and was subsequently forced to submit to the accuseds lust, rendering her unconscious in the process. [People v. Alburo] Forcible Abduction with Rape The violent taking of the woman is motivated by lewd designs. Crime against chastity Kidnapping (with rape) Not so motivated Crime against liberty
There can only be one complex crime of forcible abduction with rape. The victim witnessed the killing of another by the 2 accused. Upon seeing her, the accused dragged her to a vacant lot where they took turns in raping her. TC convicted them of rape. HELD: FORCIBLE ABDUCTION is absorbed in the crime of RAPE if the main objective is to rape the victim. Conviction of acts of lasciviousness is not a bar to conviction of forcible abduction. [People v. Godines]
11.
Forcible Abduction with Rape - a complex crime under Art. 48, and not a special complex crime The victim was abducted by the accused and was brought to a hotel where the latter succeeded in having sexual intercourse with her.
Article Abduction
343
Consented
Elements: (1) Offended party is a virgin; (2) She is over 12 and under 18 yrs. of age; (3) Offender takes her away with her consent, after solicitation or cajolery from the offender; (4) The taking away is with lewd designs.
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12.
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Nature of the complaint: The complaint must be filed in court, not with the fiscal. In case of complex crimes, where one of the component offenses is a public crime, the criminal prosecution may be instituted by the fiscal. The court motu proprio can dismiss the case for failure of the aggrieved party to file the proper complaint even if the accused never raised the question on appeal. Crimes against chastity cannot be prosecuted de oficio.
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13.
Those guilty of rape, seduction or abduction: (1) To indemnify the offended woman (2) To acknowledge the offspring, unless the law should prevent him from doing so (3) In every case to support the offspring, EXCEPT: (a) in cases of adultery and concubinage (b) where either of the offended party or accused is married (c) when paternity cannot be determined, such as in multiple rape (d) other instances where the law prevents such The adulterer and the concubine can be sentenced only to indemnify for damages caused to the offended spouse. Under the RPC, there is no civil liability for acts of lasciviousness. Art. 2219, CC: moral damages may be recovered in seduction, abduction, rape, or other lascivious acts, as well as in adultery and concubinage. The parents of the female seduced, abducted, raped, or abused may also recover moral damages. In multiple rape, all the offenders must support the offspring. Art. 283 (1), CC: Judgment to recognize the offspring may only be given if there is pregnancy within the period of conception, which is within 120 days from the commission of the offense. In rape of a married woman, only indemnity is allowed.
14.
Article 346 Liability of ascendants, guardians, teachers and other persons entrusted with the custody of the offended party
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A. Chapter I: Simulation of Births and Usurpation of Civil Status 0. 1. Article 347 - Simulation of Births,
Substitution of One Child for Another, and Concealment or Abandonment of a Legitimate Child
Mode 1. Mode 2. Mode 3. Simulation of births; Substitution of one child for another; Concealing or abandoning any legitimate child with intent to cause such child to lose its civil status.
Illustration: (1) People who have no child and who buy and adopt the child without going through legal adoption. (2) Same is true even if the child was kidnapped but they knew that the kidnappers are not the real parents of the child. (3) When the real parents make it appear in the birth certificate that the parents who bought the child are the real parents
(2) A woman who, her marriage having been annulled or dissolved, married before her delivery or before the expiration of the period of 301 days after the date of the legal separation. The Supreme Court considered the reason behind making such marriages within 301 days criminal, that is, because of the probability that there might be a confusion regarding the paternity of the child who would be born. If this reason does not exist because the former husband is impotent, OR was shown to be sterile such that the woman has had no child with him, that belief of the woman that after all there could be no confusion even if she would marry within 301 days may be taken as evidence of good faith and that would negate criminal intent.
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knowledge that they are false OR in reckless disregard of WON they were false. Reckless disregard the defendant entertains serious doubt as to the truth of the publication, OR that he possesses a high degree of awareness of their probable falsity. To avoid self-censorship that would necessarily accompany strict liability for erroneous statements, rules governing liability for injury to reputation are required to allow an adequate margin of error by protecting some inaccuracies. [Borjal v. CA (1999)] Doctrine of fair comment: Fair commentaries on matters of public interest are privileged and constitute a valid defense in an action for libel or slander. In order that a discreditable imputation to a public official may be actionable, it must either be: (1) A false allegation of fact; OR (2) A comment based on a false supposition. [People v. Velasco (2000)] PUBLIC FIGURE one who, by his accomplishments, fame, mode of living, OR by adopting a profession or calling which gives the public a legitimate interest in his doings, his affairs and his character, has become a public personage [Ayer Productions v. Capulong (1988)] Based on the ruling in US v. Ocampo, proof of knowledge of and participation in the publication of the offending article is not required, if the accused has been specifically identified as author, editor, or proprietor or printer/publisher of the publication. On January 25, 2008, the Court issued Administrative Circular No. 08-2008, entitled Guidelines in the Observance of a Rule of Preference in the Imposition of Penalties in Libel Cases. The Circular expresses a preference for the imposition of a fine rather than imprisonment, given the circumstances attendant in the cases cited therein in which only a fine was imposed by this Court on those convicted of libel. It also states that, if the penalty imposed is merely a fine but the convict is unable to pay the same, the Revised Penal Code provisions on subsidiary imprisonment should apply. However, the Circular likewise allows the court, in the exercise of sound discretion, the option to impose imprisonment as penalty, whenever the imposition of a fine alone would depreciate the seriousness of the offense, work violence on the social order, or otherwise be contrary to the imperatives of justice. [Fermin v. People (2008)]
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Publicity
IS
PRESUMED
in
every
Exception: in privileged communications, namely: (1) A private communication to an officer or a board, or superior, having some interest or duty in the matter, made by any person in the performance of any legal, moral or social duty; (2) A fair and true report, made in good faith, without any comments or remarks, of (a) any judicial, legislative or other official proceedings which are not of confidential nature, OR (b) any statement, report or speech delivered in said proceedings, OR (c) any other act performed by public officers in the exercise of their functions. Defamatory remarks are PRESUMED malicious. The presumption of malice is REBUTTED, if it is shown by the accused that (see discussion of Art. 361) (1) The defamatory imputation is true, IN CASE the law allows proof of the truth of the imputation; (2) It is published with good intention; AND (3) There is justifiable motive for making it Privileged malicious. communication is NOT PRESUMED
Use of amplifier system is not libel but oral defamation (slander) In a libel case filed in August 2006 against RP Nuclear Solutions and blogger Abe Olandres, the Pasig City Prosecutor dismissed the charges against them because they have no participation in the creation. Neither did they have the authority to modify the content of the site being hosted where the allegedly libelous remarks were posted.22 The prosecutor however ordered the filing of cases against two other respondents who never denied authorship of the posted comments. It remains debatable when the moment of publication occurs with respect to statements made over the Internet.23 One view holds that there is publication once the statement is uploaded or posted on a website. The other view maintains that publication occurs only when another person gains access or reads the statement on the site.
Kinds of Privilege: ABSOLUTE NOT actionable. Narrow and few: (1) Privileged speeches in congress (2) Statements made in judicial proceedings as long as they are relevant to the issue (3) Military affairs
QUALIFIED Actionable IF Malice or Bad faith is proven (malice in Fact) Based on par 1 and 2 of Art 354, although the list is not exclusive
4. Article
356 - Threatening to Publish and Offer to Prevent Such Publication for a Compensation
Art 354 does not cover absolute privilege because character of communications mentioned therein is lost upon proof of malice in fact. MALICE IN LAW Presumed from defamatory character of statement Statement is presented to court, and the latter will decide whether it is defamatory or not MALICE IN FACT To be proved by prosecution ONLY IF malice in law has been rebutted Can be negated by evidence of: (1) Good motives AND Justifiable ends; or (2) Privileged character
Acts Punished: (1) Threatening another to publish a libel concerning him, his parents, spouse, child or other members of his family (2) Offering to prevent the publication of such libel for compensation or money consideration. The essence of this crime is blackmail, which is defined as any unlawful extortion of money by threats of accusation or exposure. Blackmail can also be in the form of light threats, which is punished under ARTICLE 283.
22
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/infotech/vie w_article.php?article_id=68456
23
http://thewarriorlawyer.com/2007/03/04/libel-on-theinternet-under-philippine-law-part-ii/)
5. Article
357 Prohibited Publication of Acts Referred to in the Course of Official Proceedings (Gag Law)
Elements: (1) Offender is a reporter, editor or manager of a newspaper, daily or magazine; (2) He publishes facts connected with the private life of another; (3) Such facts are offensive to the honor, virtue and reputation of said person. This article is referred to as the Gag Law. Newspaper reports on cases pertaining to adultery, divorce, legitimacy of children, etc. are barred from publication. Under RA 1477, a newspaper reporter cannot be compelled to reveal the source of the news report he made, UNLESS the court or a House or committee of Congress finds that such revelation is demanded by the security of the state.
Elements: (1) Offender performs any act not included in any other crime against honor; (2) Such act is performed in the presence of other person or persons; (3) Such act casts dishonor, discredit or contempt upon the offended party. Slander by deed is of two kinds (1) Simple slander by deed (2) Grave slander by deed There is no fixed standard in determining whether a slander is serious or not; hence the courts have sufficient discretion to determine the same, basing the finding on the attendant circumstances and matters relevant thereto.
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http://thewarriorlawyer.com/2007/03/04/libel-on-theinternet-under-philippine-law-part-ii/)
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0. 1. Article
Incriminating
As far as this crime is concerned, this has been interpreted to be possible only in the so-called planting of evidence. If this act is resorted to, to enable officers to arrest the subject, the crime is unlawful arrest through incriminating innocent persons. This crime cannot be committed through verbal incriminatory statements. INCRIMINATING INNOCENT PERSON act of planting evidence and the like in order to incriminate an innocent person PERJURY BY MAKING FALSE ACCUSATIONS giving of false statement under oath or making a false affidavit, imputing to the person the commission of a crime DEFAMATION public and malicious imputation calculated to cause dishonor, discredit, or contempt upon the offended party
If he is a public officer, the criminal action can only be instituted in either: (1) RTC of the province or city where the libelous article is printed and first published, OR (2) RTC of the province or city where he held office at the time of the commission of the offense If he is a private person, the criminal action may be brought in: (1) RTC of the province or city where the libelous article is printed and first published, OR (2) RTC of the province or city where he actually resided at the time of the commission of the offense
Jurisprudence
Libel against a public official An open letter addressed to the stockholders of OPMC was the subject of a full-page advertisement published in 5 major daily newspapers. Coyiuto, Jr., wrote in his capacity as Chairman of the Board and President of OPMC, that there was a sweetheart deal between Commissioner Mario Jalandoni of the PCGG and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) to the prejudice of the Government . In the recent case of Vasquez v. Court of Appeals, et. al., the Court ruled that: "The question is whether from the fact that the statements were defamatory, malice can be presumed so that it was incumbent upon petitioner to overcome such presumption. Under Art. 361 of the Revised Penal Code, if the defamatory statement is made against a public official with respect to the discharge of his official duties and functions and the truth of the allegation is shown, the accused will be entitled to an acquittal even though he does not prove that the
10.
(1) Libelous remarks or comments (2) connected with the matter privileged under the provisions of Art. 354, (3) if made with malice, (4) shall NOT exempt the author thereof nor the editor or managing editor of a newspaper from criminal liability.
Incriminatory
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258
259
Art. 275. Abandonment of person in danger and abandonment of one's own victim. The penalty of arresto mayor shall be imposed upon: 1. Anyone who shall fail to render assistance to any person whom he shall find in an uninhabited place wounded or in danger of dying, when he can render such assistance without detriment to himself, unless such omission shall constitute a more serious offense. 2. Anyone who shall fail to help or render assistance to another whom he has accidentally wounded or injured. 3. Anyone who, having found an abandoned child under seven years of age, shall fail to deliver said child to the authorities or to his family, or shall fail to take him to a safe place.
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261
262
Annex A
Offender ARBITRARY DETENTION Public officer who has authority to make arrests and detain persons Violate the offended partys constitutional freedom against warrantless arrest ILLEGAL DETENTION (1) Private person; OR (2) Public officer who is acting in a private capacity or beyond the scope of his official duty Deprive the offended party of his personal liberty UNLAWFUL ARREST Any person
Criminal intent
Accuse the offended party of a crime he did not commit, deliver him to the proper authority, and file the necessary charges to incriminate him
Annex B
Habitual Delinquency Art. 62 (5) Crimes Specific crimes: 1. Less serious or serious physical injuries 2. Robbery 3. Theft 4. Estafa 5. Falsification Within 10 years from his last release or conviction Guilty the third time or oftener Recidivism Art. 14 (9) Sufficient that the offender has been: 1. Previously convicted by final judgment 2. For another crime 3. Embraced in the same title of the Code 4. On the date of his trial No period of time The second conviction for an offense embraced in the same title of this Code If not offset by any mitigating circumstance, increase the penalty only to the maximum Habituality/ Reiteracion/ Repetition Art. 14 (10) Necessary that the offender shall have served out his sentence for the first offense
The previous and subsequent offenses must NOT be embraced in the same title of the Code Not always circumstance an aggravating
Their effects