Espionage Act of 1941

Espionage Act
National Assembly of the Philippines
Long title An Act to Punish Espionage and Other Offenses Against the National Security
Citation	Commonwealth Act No. 616
Passed	June 4, 1941
Effective	June 4, 1941
Status: In force

The Espionage Act of 1941 or Commonwealth Act No. 616 is a Philippine law which criminalizes acts of espionage against the Philippines. Adopted in 1941 by the National Assembly of the Philippines, during the Commonwealth era when the islands were still an American territory, it also covers acts committed against the United States. ^{[1] [2]}

Most offenses stipulated in the act apply during wartime. Amendment to it is sought in the 2020s for stiffer penalties and expanding the coverage that can be penalized during times of peace. In June 2023, Senate Bill 2368 was filed. ^[2] In October 2024, House Bill No. 10983 was filed by Rufus Rodriguez of Cagayan de Oro's 2nd district. The House proposal came following allegations of espionage by China which also involves the case of former Bamban mayor Alice Guo. ^[3]

After the capture of Deng Yuanqing, a Chinese national, for alleged espionage, the National Security Council has urged for the passage of an amendment bill. ^{[4] [5]}

References

1. "Commonwealth Act No. 616 - AN ACT TO PUNISH ESPIONAGE AND OTHER OFFENSES AGAINST THE NATIONAL SECURITY". Supreme Court E-Library. National Assembly of the Philippines. June 4, 1941. Retrieved January 21, 2025.
2. Punongbayan, Michael (June 6, 2024). "Gibo working with Jinggoy to amend espionage law". The Philippine Star. Retrieved January 21, 2025.
3. Lalu, Gabriel Pabico (October 21, 2024). "House bill seeking to enable espionage law during peacetime filed". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved January 21, 2025.
4. Argosino, Faith (January 21, 2025). "NSC urges Congress to prioritize anti-espionage bills, amendments". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved January 21, 2025.
5. Kabagani, Lade Jean (January 21, 2025). "Congress urged to amend Phl espionage law". Daily Tribune. Retrieved January 21, 2025.