False medical certificates, false certificates of merits or service, etc.

1. Concept

Art. 174. False medical certificates, false certificates of merits or service, etc. - The penalties of arresto mayor in its maximum period to prisión correccional in its minimum period and a fine not to exceed Two hundred thousand pesos (₱200,000) shall be imposed upon:1. Any physician or surgeon who, in connection with the practice of his profession, shall issue a false certificate; and2. Any public officer who shall issue a false certificate of merit of service, good conduct or similar circumstances."The penalty of arresto mayor shall be imposed upon any private person who shall falsify a certificate falling within the classes mentioned in the two (2) preceding subdivisions. (Act No. 3815, Revised Penal Code)

2. Mode of commission

Elements of the offense:

1st Mode

1) The offender is a physician or surgeon; and,

2) In connection with the practice of his profession, he issues a false certificate.

2nd Mode

1) The offender is a public officer; and,

2) He issues a false certificate of merit of service, good conduct or similar circumstances.

References

⦁ Title 4 – Crimes Against Public Interest, Book 2, Revised Penal Code
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