Heavier penalties for spreading fake news

President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law amendments to the Revised Penal Code that will impose heavier charges to anyone proven guilty of spreading false news.

The Republic Act 10951 or “An Act Adjusting the Amount or the Value of Property and Damage on which a Penalty is Based,” places a fine of P40,000 to P200,000 for those who are found guilty of spreading false news, that might endanger public order or damage the interest or credit of the state, by printing, lithography or any other means of publication.

Meanwhile, other coverage of the newly signed law mandates heavier penalties on treason. Tose found guilty will be fined a maximum of P4 million from the original P20,000 and will now be punished by reclusion perpetua to death.

Moreover, other minor crimes that used to have P200 as fines will now be P40,000.

Senator Franklin Drilon proposed the amendment of this law last January while Senator Leila de Lima co-authored it.

(DAILY NEWS ROUND UP FOR 09/ 01 / 17)