Ignominy, A14(17) Revised Penal Code

1. Concept

Ignominy, as an aggravating circumstance under the Revised Penal Code – refers to the circumstance when the offender commits the crime in such a manner that it becomes more humiliating to the victims or adds to their moral suffering.

Ignominy – is defined as a circumstance pertaining to the moral order which adds disgrace and obloquy to the material injury caused by the crime. (People v. Bacule, En Banc, G.R. No. 127568, January 28, 2000, Per Kapunan, J.)

a. Legal basis

Article 14. Aggravating circumstances. - The following are aggravating circumstances:

17. That means be employed or circumstances brought about which add ignominy to the natural effects of the act.

(Revised Penal Code)

2. Ignominy

For the aggravating circumstance of ignominy (ignominia), the offender commits an act that is morally disgraceful or obloquy in the process of or during the commission of the crime.

This aggravating circumstance requires that the offense be committed in a manner that tends to make its effects more humiliating to the victim, that is, add to his moral suffering. (People v. Carmina, G.R. No. 81404, January 28, 1991, Per Cruz, J.)

The aggravating circumstance of ignominy shall be taken into account if means are employed or circumstances brought about which add ignominy to the natural effects of the offense; or if the crime was committed in a manner that tends to make its effects more humiliating to the victim, that is, add to her moral suffering....