Amends Penal Code on Disobedience to Legislative Summons

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Commonwealth Act No. 52: Amends Penal Code on Disobedience to Legislative Summons

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Title Source: Supreme Court: Amends Penal Code on Disobedience to Legislative Summons

Law: Commonwealth Act No. 52

Decision Date: Oct 16, 1936

Commonwealth Act No. 52 amends the penalties for disobedience to summons issued by legislative and constitutional bodies in the Philippines, imposing imprisonment or fines on those who refuse to attend as witnesses or provide necessary information.

Law Summary

Obligations of Summoned Individuals

Individuals summoned as witnesses are required to:
- Attend the hearing before the respective legislative or constitutional body.
- Submit to being sworn or affirming to tell the truth.
- Answer all legal inquiries posed by these bodies.
- Produce any relevant books, papers, documents, or records in their possession upon request.

Penalty for Non-Compliance

Any person who refuses without legal excuse to comply with any of the above obligations faces:
- Arresto mayor (imprisonment ranging from 1 month and 1 day to 6 months).
- A fine ranging from two hundred to one thousand pesos.
- Or both imprisonment and fine.

Additional Prohibitions and Penalties

The same penalties apply to anyone who:
- Restrains another from attending as a witness.
- Induces a person to disobey a summons or refuse to be sworn.

Legal Process and Effective Date

The act took effect immediately upon its approval on October 16, 1936.
This amendment modifies Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code to strengthen compliance with legislative and constitutional investigations.

END