DUTERTES FILE BILL EXPANDING DEFINITION OF TREASON
Former president Rodrigo Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, have backed a bill that seeks to broaden the legal definition of treason in the Philippines, according to initial reports from congressional sources. The proposal was recently filed in the House of Representatives and has begun moving through the early stages of the legislative process. Based on preliminary information, the measure aims to update how treason is defined in the country’s criminal laws, which are largely rooted in older legal frameworks. Officials have indicated that the bill will still undergo committee hearings, debates, and possible amendments before any final version is considered.
Context for the proposal includes ongoing public and political discussions about national security, foreign influence, and the role of public officials during crises, according to legal commentators cited in early coverage. Treason is currently defined in the Revised Penal Code as acts such as levying war against the government or aiding an enemy in times of war, and the bill reportedly seeks to add or clarify situations that could be covered. Analysts note that changes to this definition may affect how certain acts by both civilians and state officials are evaluated in relation to national security. However, based on available reports, the exact wording of all proposed additions and the full range of conduct they would cover have not yet been fully disclosed to the public.
Authorities and legal experts are now examining the bill’s language to see how it aligns with constitutional protections, due process standards, and existing national security laws. According to early legal reviews, they are checking whether the broader definition might overlap with other offenses, such as espionage or disloyalty, and how courts might interpret the new terms. Lawmakers are also expected to verify potential implications for freedom of expression, political activity, and the responsibilities of public officials, especially during emergencies or conflicts. As the measure proceeds through Congress, more detailed analyses and official explanations are anticipated, and observers are watching for technical refinements that may narrow, clarify, or restructure the proposed changes.
