SC warns makers, sellers of items with unauthorized Supreme Court seal
THE SUPREME Court (SC) warned manufacturers and sellers of items with unauthorized seal of the High Court, saying they face imprisonment for the illegal activity.
The warning came after reports of the sale of identification cards, lanyards, car stickers, emblems, and license plates with the court’s seal and/or badge through online platforms.
In its resolution dated June 15 and published on July 9, the High Court warned that those who will produce, sell, or distribute such merchandise will be criminally prosecuted under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code.
Article 179 states that “any person who shall publicly and improperly make use of insignia, uniforms or dress pertaining to an office not held by such person or to a class of persons of which he is not a member” will be imprisoned from one month and one day to six months.
The Supreme Court further directed all individuals currently producing, selling, or distributing such items to immediately stop, or they will be charged with indirect contempt of court punishable by a maximum fine of P30,000 or imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
The court’s Office of Administrative Services (OAS) was instructed to strictly monitor and regulate these illegal activities.
The court will also be giving a copy of the resolution to the head offices of online shopping platforms such as Shopee Philippines, Inc. and Lazada Group Philippines.
The resolution will take effect after its publication in two general circulation newspapers. — Bianca Angelica D. Añago
