DOJ warns COVID-19 patients will face prosecution if they escape quarantine

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra warned that patients infected with COVID-19 and persons under investigation (PUIs) will face prosecution if they escape hospitalization or quarantine.

Guevarra emphasized that being sick does not exempt individuals from criminal liability.

Those who defy quarantine measures could face charges for multiple violations, including non-cooperation under Republic Act No. 11332, which carries a penalty of P20,000 to P50,000 fine or imprisonment of one to six months.

Additionally, individuals may be charged with resistance and disobedience to a person in authority under Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code, punishable by one to six months of imprisonment and a fine of at most P100,000.