Query: Pede ko pang kasuhan ang isang tao if tinatakot nya ako via txt messages or chat?
In the Philippines, threats made via text or chat messages can be legally actionable. The Revised Penal Code (RPC) and the Cybercrime Prevention Act are the primary laws addressing this type of conduct.
1. Threats under the Revised Penal Code (RPC):
Under Article 282 of the Revised Penal Code, a person who threatens another person with bodily harm or any offense, either through oral or written communication, can be charged with grave threats. If the threat involves a condition or is of a serious nature, the person making the threat can be penalized【5†source】.
2. Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10175):
This law addresses crimes committed through electronic means, including threats sent via text messages or online chats. The law covers cyber libel, cyberbullying, and other forms of harassment conducted through electronic means .
3. Cyberstalking and Harassment:
The Cybercrime Prevention Act also penalizes cyberstalking and harassment. If someone persistently sends threatening messages or engages in other forms of harassment through electronic communications, this can be considered cyberstalking or harassment, which is punishable under the law .
4. How to File a Case:
If you receive threatening messages, you should preserve the evidence by saving the messages and taking screenshots. You can file a complaint with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) or the Philippine National Police (PNP), particularly the Anti-Cybercrime Group, which can assist in investigating and prosecuting such offenses【6†source】.
5. Protection Orders:
In certain cases, you may also seek protection orders, especially if the threats are part of domestic violence. The Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act (RA 9262) provides legal protection for victims of such threats and violence【7†source】.
It's crucial to take such threats seriously and to seek legal assistance when faced with them. The Philippine legal system provides avenues for victims to address and counteract threats made through text or chat messages.