Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 5701)
The main purpose of Republic Act No. 5701 is to amend Section 46 of Commonwealth Act No. 613, the Philippine Immigration Act, particularly to address the illegal bringing, landing, harboring, employing, or giving comfort to aliens not duly admitted under Philippine immigration laws.
Any individual who brings into or lands in the Philippines, or conceals, harbors, employs, or gives comfort to any alien not lawfully admitted or entitled to enter or reside in the Philippines, including aliens who entered without inspection or by false representation, and those who conspire or aid in such acts.
A fine ranging from five thousand pesos to ten thousand pesos, imprisonment for five to ten years, and if the offender is an alien, deportation.
No, dismissal by the employer before or after apprehension does not relieve the employer of the offense.
The fine imposed constitutes a lien against the vessel or aircraft, which may be enforced similarly to fines under customs laws. Additionally, the court may order forfeiture of the vessel or aircraft in favor of the Government instead of imposing the fine if justified by circumstances.
No, forfeiture is at the discretion of the court and is ordered only if justified by the circumstances of the case.
An alien who has not been inspected, processed, and formally granted lawful entry into the Philippines by authorized immigration officials.
Yes, such aliens are subject to penalties including imprisonment and deportation.
RA No. 5701 took effect upon its approval on June 21, 1969.
Section 46 sets the penalties and liabilities for illegal entry, harboring, and employment of aliens, ensuring enforcement against violations of immigration laws to protect national sovereignty and security.