SUMMARY

Treason. A word that has come to color the national conversation. According to the Revised Penal Code, this crime punishes “[a]ny Filipino citizen who levies war against the Philippines or adheres to her enemies, giving them aid or comfort within the Philippines or elsewhere.” However, the Supreme Court has interpreted the text of Article 114 such that a person can only be found guilty of treason if there is a “war.” 

This being the case, what do we do with allegations that “secret deals” were made over the West Philippine Sea (WPS)? What can be done when individuals with questionable citizenship or ties to a foreign power bypass safeguards and acquire political office? There being no “war,” can leaders who willfully compromise the nation’s interests ever be held liable?

If no…

Source:https://www.rappler.com/voices/thought-leaders/opinion-presidential-treason-west-philippine-sea/