Scope and Application
- The law covers any person owing allegiance to the United States or the Government of the Philippine Islands, except foreigners.
- Resident aliens in the Philippines are explicitly included and subject to penalties for treasonous acts.
Definition of Treason
- Treason involves levying war against the United States or the Philippine Government.
- It also covers adhering to the enemies of these governments by giving them aid or comfort, either within the Philippines or elsewhere.
Penalties for Treason
- Filipinos guilty of treason face penalties ranging from reclusion temporal (imprisonment) to death.
- They may also be fined up to 20,000 pesos.
- Resident aliens committing treason face penalties ranging from prision mayor (serious imprisonment) to death.
- They are also liable to pay fines up to 20,000 pesos.
Evidence Required for Conviction
- Conviction requires the testimony of at least two witnesses to the same overt act.
- Alternatively, a confession made by the accused in open court is sufficient for conviction.
Purpose and Justification of the Amendment
- The amendment aims to safeguard the Philippines' integrity and internal security during a national emergency.
- It extends the government’s ability to prosecute treasonous actions by resident aliens, previously excluded under the original law.
Legal Authority and Effectivity
- The amendment is issued under the authority of the President of the Philippines through constitutional and statutory powers.
- It was promulgated on May 31, 1945, during the Commonwealth period of the Philippines.