Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 6425)
Republic Act No. 6425 is known and cited as "The Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972."
To "administer" means introducing any dangerous drug into the body of any person, with or without his knowledge, by injection, ingestion or other means, or assisting a person in administering a dangerous drug to himself.
Dangerous drugs are classified into 'Prohibited drugs' (like opium, heroin, cocaine, Indian hemp, hallucinogens) and 'Regulated drugs' (such as barbiturates, amphetamines, and hypnotics).
The penalty is imprisonment from fourteen years and one day to life imprisonment and a fine ranging from fourteen thousand to thirty thousand pesos.
Imprisonment from twelve years and one day to twenty years and a fine of twelve thousand to twenty thousand pesos; if the victim is a minor, the maximum penalty is imposed; if the drug causes death, the penalty is life imprisonment to death plus a fine of twenty thousand to thirty thousand pesos.
Imprisonment from twelve years and one day to twenty years and a fine ranging from twelve thousand to twenty thousand pesos. The maximum penalty applies if minors are involved. If a death results, life imprisonment to death and a fine of twenty thousand to thirty thousand pesos are imposed.
Imprisonment from six months and one day to six years and a fine ranging from six hundred to six thousand pesos.
Imprisonment from eight years and one day to twelve years and a fine ranging from eight thousand to twelve thousand pesos.
The Board consists of nine members: three appointed by the President with expertise in relevant fields, and six ex-officio members (Secretaries or representatives from key government departments). It promulgates rules, oversees treatment centers, conducts research, and coordinates drug control programs.
A drug dependent who voluntarily submits to confinement, treatment and rehabilitation and complies with Board-prescribed conditions shall not be criminally liable for possession or use offenses. Minors can be committed through sworn petition. Recommitment and conditions for escape are also provided.
The Circuit Criminal Court has exclusive original jurisdiction. Preliminary investigations must be resolved within 7 days, and decisions rendered within 15 days after submission.
Records are confidential, not to be used against the drug dependent except to determine submissions or commitments. Unauthorized disclosure of these records may result in imprisonment and fines.
The maximum penalties prescribed for various offenses apply if the offender is a government official, employee, or member of police or armed forces.
Heads, supervisors, and teachers are empowered to apprehend violators in schools; instruction on dangerous drugs must be integrated into curricula of all public and private schools with the assistance of the Board for materials and awareness programs.