What is the penalty for a first-time criminal copyright offense?
A person guilty of a first offense faces imprisonment between one to three years. They are also required to pay a fine ranging from Fifty thousand to One hundred fifty thousand pesos. This penalty applies to those who infringe or aid and abet such infringement. These criminal sanctions are listed in Section 217.1 Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines. “SEC. 217. Criminal Penalties. – 217.1. Any person infringing any right secured by provisions of Part IV of this Act… shall be guilty of a crime punishable by: (a) Imprisonment of one (1) year to three (3) years plus a fine ranging from Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000) to One hundred fifty thousand pesos (P150,000) for the first offense.” January 8, 2026About Nicolas and De Vega Law Offices
Nicolas and De Vega Law Offices is a full-service law firm in the Philippines. You may visit us at the 16th Flr., Suite 1607 AIC Burgundy Empire Tower, ADB Ave., Ortigas Center, 1605 Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines. You may also call us at +632 84706126, +632 84706130, +632 84016392 or e-mail us at [email protected]. Visit our website https://ndvlaw.com/.

