Title
Penalizing cheating in sports contests
Law
Presidential Decree No. 483
Decision Date
Jun 13, 1974
A 1974 presidential decree in the Philippines aims to combat gambling and protect youth and sports programs by prohibiting game-fixing, point-shaving, and other fraudulent activities in sports contests, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.
A

Unlawful Acts Penalized

  • Prohibition extends to betting and fraudulent manipulations such as game-fixing, point-shaving, and machinations.
  • Applies to basketball, volleyball, softball, baseball, chess, boxing, jai alai, sipa, pelota, and all other sports contests, games, or races.
  • Betting activities are illegal unless explicitly authorized by law.

Penalties for Violations

  • Officials and participants (promoters, referees, judges, coaches, team managers, players): face maximum period prision correccional and fine of ₱2,000, with subsidiary imprisonment if insolvent.
  • Syndicates of five or more persons incur the same penalty as officials/participants.
  • Other offenders receive medium period prision correccional and fine of ₱1,000, with subsidiary imprisonment if insolvent.
  • Government officials/employees involved in enforcement or administration of sports laws face maximum period prision correccional, ₱2,000 fine, lifetime disqualification from public office, and possible deportation if alien.

Protections for Whistleblowers

  • Individuals voluntarily reporting violations to the Philippine Amateur Athletic Federation, National Sports Association, or law enforcement are protected.
  • Arrest, detention, or prosecution of whistleblowers requires prior written clearance from the President of the Philippines or the Secretary of National Defense.

Repealing Provisions

  • Repeals Article 197 of the Revised Penal Code and any other inconsistent decrees, laws, orders, or regulations.

Effectivity Clause

  • The decree is effective immediately upon its publication at least once in a newspaper of general circulation by the Department of Public Information.

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