Law Summary
Key Amendments to Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code
- Imposes penalties including prision mayor (imprisonment) and fines between six thousand to twelve thousand pesos, or both
- Applies penalties to four main categories of offenses:
- Public proclamation of doctrines contrary to public morals
- Authors, editors, and sellers of obscene literature published knowingly
- Exhibition of indecent or immoral plays, scenes, acts, or shows in various public venues
- Sale, distribution, or exhibition of offensive prints, engravings, sculptures, or literature
Specific Prohibitions Related to Films
- Prohibits films that:
- Incite subversion, insurrection, or rebellion against the State
- Undermine public faith and confidence in government and authorities
- Glorify criminals or condone crimes
- Serve solely to satisfy market for violence, lust, or pornography
- Offend any race or religion
- Abet trafficking in and use of prohibited drugs
- Contravene laws, public order, morals, customs, policies, lawful orders, and regulatory edicts
- Are objectionable on other legal or moral grounds as judged by the Board of Censors for Motion Pictures or similar agencies
Confiscation and Forfeiture
- All materials involved in violations (literature, films, prints, sculptures, paintings, and other related articles) shall be confiscated
- Confiscated items are forfeited to the Government and subject to destruction
Jurisdiction and Enforcement
- Violations are subject to trial by military tribunals
- Offenders are subject to arrest and detention under laws and proclamations related to martial law periods (Proclamations No. 1081 and No. 1104)
Additional Penalties for Government Officials and Establishments
- Government officials or employees allowing violations face maximum penalties plus accessory penalties under the Revised Penal Code
- Licenses or permits of venues where violations occur shall be suspended or revoked, temporarily or permanently, based on the severity determined by military tribunals
Effectivity and Publication
- The decree becomes effective fifteen (15) days after publication
- Publication is mandated in two newspapers of general circulation by the Department of Public Information