Further Amending Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code, as Amended

EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 272 July 25, 1987

FURTHER AMENDING ARTICLE 125 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE, AS AMENDED

WHEREAS, in the interest of public safety and order, it is imperative that a reasonable and sufficient period be given within which to conduct adequate and thorough investigation of persons detained for some legal grounds.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, CORAZON C. AQUINO, President of the Philippines, do hereby order:

Sec. 1. Article one hundred twenty-five of Act Numbered Three Thousand Eight Hundred Fifteen (Act No. 3815) otherwise known as the Revised Penal Code, as amended, is hereby further amended to read as follows:

"Art. 125. Delay in the delivery of detained persons to the proper judicial authorities. The penalties provided in the next preceding article shall be imposed upon the public officer or employee who shall detain any person for some legal ground and shall fail to deliver such person to the proper judicial authorities within the period of twelve (12) hours, for crimes or offenses punishable by light penalties, or their equivalent; eighteen (18)...

Summary of Executive Order No. 272

Amending Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code
- Establishes time limits for delivering detained persons to judicial authorities (Sec. 1):
• 12 hours for crimes punishable by light penalties or equivalent
• 18 hours for crimes punishable by correctional penalties or equivalent
• 36 hours for crimes punishable by afflictive or capital penalties or equivalent
- Requires detained persons to be informed of the cause of detention (Sec. 1)
- Allows detained persons to communicate with attorney upon request (Sec. 1)
- Repeals or modifies inconsistent laws, orders, issuances, rules, and regulations (Sec. 2)
- Takes effect 30 days after publication in the Official Gazette (Sec. 3)