QuestionsQuestions (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 533)
“Large cattle” includes the cow, carabao, horse, mule, ass, or other domesticated member of the bovine family.
It includes the herdsman, caretaker, employee, tenant of any firm or entity engaged in raising large cattle, and other persons in lawful possession of such large cattle.
Cattle rustling is the taking away of any of the mentioned animals without the consent of the owner/raiser, whether or not for profit or gain, committed with or without violence against/intimidation of persons or force upon things; it also includes killing the large cattle or taking its meat or hide without consent.
The owner/raiser must register the large cattle before they attain the age of six months with the city/municipal treasurer of the place where they are raised.
The city/municipality concerned may impose and collect the fees authorized by existing laws for registration and issuance of a certificate of ownership.
They must strictly observe the pertinent provisions of Chapter 22, Sections 611 to 534 of the Revised Administrative Code, except where inconsistent with PD No. 533.
They must secure a permit from the Provincial Commander of the province where the business will be conducted and from the city/municipal treasurer of the place of residence of the person/entity.
The permit is only valid in the province where it is secured.
It may be done upon securing a permit from the city/municipal treasurer of the place of origin.
Failure to exhibit required documents is prima facie evidence that the large cattle in the person’s possession/control/custody are the fruits of the crime of cattle rustling.
The penalty is prision mayor in its maximum period to reclusion temporal in its medium period.
The penalty is reclusion temporal in its maximum period to reclusion perpetua.
The penalty is reclusion perpetua to death.
In addition to the main penalty, the offender is disqualified from voting or being voted upon in any election/referendum and from holding any public office or employment.
The alien shall be deported immediately upon completion of the service of the sentence without further proceedings.
The Chief of Constabulary.
Articles 309 and 310 of Act No. 3815 (Revised Penal Code), pertinent provisions of the Revised Administrative Code, and all inconsistent laws, decrees, orders, instructions, rules, and regulations.
It takes effect upon approval.