Practice question
A penal statute contains an imperfectly phrased term. Its express definitions and surrounding provisions nevertheless make the prohibition comprehensible for the conduct charged. Explain why imperfect wording alone does not resolve an as-applied vagueness challenge.
Legal references
- 1987 Constitution, Article III, Section 1, due process: https://elibrary.judiciary.gov.ph/thebookshelf/showdocs/3/353
- People v. Nazario, G.R. No. L-44143, August 31, 1988, main decision, comprehensible standards and fair construction: https://lawphil.net/judjuris/juri1988/aug1988/gr_l-44143_1988.html
- Estrada v. Sandiganbayan, G.R. No. 148560, November 19, 2001, main decision, vagueness and statutory context: https://lawphil.net/judjuris/juri2001/nov2001/gr_148560_2001.html
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