Penalizing the Construction or Maintenance of "Cottas"
Commonwealth Act No. 280, enacted on June 3, 1938, prohibits the construction or maintenance of structures known as "cottas," which are defined as shelters built to protect outlaws or those defying government authorities. Existing cottas may be demolished by order of the President, except those deemed historically significant. Violators face fines ranging from 500 to 2,000 pesos, with additional penalties of imprisonment if they are unable to pay. This law aims to eliminate refuges for unlawful individuals and enhance public safety.
Law Information
- Reference Number
- Commonwealth Act No. 280
- Date Enacted
- Category
- Statutes
- Subcategory
- Commonwealth Acts
- Jurisdiction
- Philippines
- Enacting Body
- Congress of the Philippines
Full Law Text
June 3, 1938
COMMONWEALTH ACT NO. 280
AN ACT PENALIZING THE CONSTRUCTION OR MAINTENANCE OF "COTTAS"
SECTION 1. It shall be unlawful to construct or maintain any "cotta".
As used in this Act, "cotta" shall be understood as any structure built of sand, earth, stone, wood and/or bamboo or other similar material by any private person which is fortified and intended to be or is used as shelter or refuge by or for the protection of outlaws or persons defying the constituted authorities of the Government.
SECTION 2. Such "cottas" as may exist on the date of the approval of this Act, upon order of the President of the Philippines, shall be demolished; Provided, however, That "cottas" which in the judgment of the President are of historical value shall be exempted from the operation of this section.
SECTION 3. Any person or persons found guilty of violating the provisions of this Act shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred nor more than two thousand pesos with subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency or imprisonment of not less than six months, nor more than two years, or both fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
Approved, June 3, 1938.
Cite This Law
Penalizing the Construction or Maintenance of "Cottas", Commonwealth Act No. 280, Jun 3, 1938 (Philippines)
Penalizing the Construction or Maintenance of "Cottas", Commonwealth Act No. 280 (Phil. 1938)
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