Fundamentals of criminal law and RPC articles I to 3 PART 2

Summary

An educational breakdown of foundational criminal law principles, including the interpretation of penal laws, mens rea, the Revised Penal Code (RPC), and the classical versus positivist theories of justice.

Highlights

Introduction to Penal Law Principles00:00:00

The session begins with the doctrine of strict construction of penal laws, where laws are interpreted strictly against the government and liberally in favor of the accused in cases of ambiguity.

Actus Reus and Mens Rea00:02:34

Explanation of non-facet-reum (the act does not make one guilty unless the mind is also guilty) and the distinction between mala in se (inherently wrong acts requiring criminal intent) and mala prohibita (acts made illegal by statute).

Ignorantia Legis and RPC Effectivity00:10:17

Overview of the principle that ignorance of the law excuses no one, followed by an introduction to the Revised Penal Code (RPC) and its effectivity date of January 1, 1932.

Classical and Positivist Theories00:13:39

The video discusses how the RPC is based on both classical theory (focusing on retribution and free will proportionality) and positivist theory (focusing on reform and factors like insanity or lack of control over one's actions).