Preamble
WHEREAS, reports from law enforcement agencies reveal that crimes against National Security or Public Order and organized/syndicated crime in the country are becoming sophisticated, diversified, and widespread; WHEREAS, such criminal activities have resulted not only in the wanton destruction of lives and properties but have likewise weakened the Nation's economic stability, threatened its security and underlined the general welfare of its citizens; WHEREAS, said criminal activities continue to grow because of the inadequate evidence-gathering process of the law and the seeming, apathy of the citizens in testifying against entrenched and feared malefactors; WHEREAS, there is an imperative need to neutralize crimes against National Security or Public Order or organized/syndicated crime in this country before they grow to unmanageable proportions by providing rewards, incentives, protection and, in certain cases, immunity from criminal prosecution to government witnesses, so that the total commitment of our people on the side of law enforcement may be encouraged. NOW, THEREFORE, I, FERDINAND E. MARCOS, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the power in me vested by the Constitution do hereby order and decree the following: SECTION l. Definition of Terms. – The following terms shall mean and be 'understood/ construed as follows: Government – means the Republic of the Philippines, any political subdivision, or any department, agency, or instrumentality thereof. Organized/Syndicated Crime – means any crime committed by an organized/syndicated crime group, including, but not limited to, arson, robbery (hold-up), kidnapping for ransom, prostitution, illegal recruitment, carnapping, smuggling and piracy, cattle rustling, illicit drug trafficking labor rackets, land title rackets, manufacture and/or circulation of fake documents, license, stamps, currencies, and other government forms, counterfeiting and bank frauds, consumer frauds and other illegal activities of such croups. Organized/Syndicated Crime Group – means a group of two (2) or more persons collaborating, confederating or mutually helping one another in the commission of any organized/ syndicated crime. Witness – shall refer to any person who, having organs of sense, can perceive and, perceiving, can make known his perception to others. Vital Informations – shall mean any information, document, book, writing, or any other evidence necessary to build up the people's dase and/or secure the conviction of criminals.