Siquijor solon on justice system reforms: Old revised penal code must be replaced

CEBU, Philippines - Siquijor Representative Rav Rocamora has called for a new criminal code to replace the old Revised Penal Code (RPC) or Act No. 3815, contending that the latter has been proven insufficient to address crimes in the modern context.

"It is popular knowledge that our justice system is inherently weak. Aside from corruption, lack of support and bias towards the rich and powerful, one of the weaknesses is the archaic criminal laws. The clearest example is our RPC, which was enacted in 1930, during the Insular Government when Filipinos did not yet enjoy self-rule from the Americans," he said.

Rocamora said the RPC was a "product of its historical and social context, reflecting an antiquated appreciation of crimes," or that the 21st century laws are still embedded in the 20th century.

He cited some examples: "The RPC still criminalizes challenging to a duel; has unequal treatment for marital infidelity committed by the wife (adultery) and that committed by the husband (concubinage)."

Rocamora, who once served as public prosecutor for 24 years, said the new criminal code, as part of the Justice Reform Package, will address pressing concerns in fighting crime in the modern world, such as "improving and simplifying the definition of crimes and penalties, confronting transnational crimes, and making it more gender responsive."

The congressman also proposed for "more support for our courts, hiring more public lawyers and prosecutors, better training and equipment for our law enforcement agencies, and improving our rehabilitation and detention centers."

Rocamora said he will file a bill to replace the RPC as soon as ongoing discussions spearheaded by the University of the Philippines Law Center on the matter are concluded.  Contributed by Carlo Vargas

 (FREEMAN NEWS)