Amnesty for WWII Resistance Acts

Some acts committed by resistance members were penalized under existing Philippine law.
Charges have been filed against many of these individuals in Philippine courts.
Such acts, although against laws, were committed in the context of resistance to the enemy.

The law acknowledges that these persons should not be regarded as criminals.
They are recognized instead as patriots and heroes who have served the nation.
There is a desire to remove the stigma and legal jeopardy from these individuals promptly.

Amnesty is granted in favor of all persons who committed acts penalized under the Revised Penal Code during the resistance.
The relevant period is from December 8, 1941, until the liberation of each specific area from enemy occupation.
Amnesty applies only to acts done in furtherance of resistance or against collaborators aiding the enemy's war efforts.
Exclusions: crimes against chastity and acts committed purely from personal motives are not covered.

Special Commissions are established to determine eligibility for amnesty.
These Commissions examine individual cases and may conduct summary hearings with witnesses.
If a case qualifies, the Commission declares the amnesty effective immediately, and the accused is released.

Cases found not to qualify proceed through normal court processes.
A Commission's negative decision does not prejudice the accused’s defense rights.
The accused may present evidence in court to prove eligibility for amnesty.
If the court finds amnesty applicable, it declares it and grants immediate release.