Manila: Senator Panfilo Lacson has filed a bill aimed at expanding the scope of the country's anti-wiretapping law in an effort to intensify the fight against serious crimes.

According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed measure, titled An Act Expanding the Scope and Coverage of Republic Act No. 4200, seeks to allow wiretapping-with court authorization-for crimes such as coup d'etat, conspiracy or proposal to commit coup d'etat, robbery in band, highway robbery, violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165), and violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (RA 9160).

In advocating for the measure, Lacson emphasized the past effectiveness of wiretapping in combating crimes that pose threats to national security and public safety. However, he noted that current laws are outdated. "Unfortunately, there are still certain crimes not covered under these exceptional cases, which put not only the lives and property of our people in paramount danger, but also pose a grave threat to our nation's security," Lacson stated in the bill, which remains unnumbered. He asserted the need to revisit RA 4200 to enhance its effectiveness.

The bill also proposes regulations on the sale or importation of wiretapping devices, requiring written approval from the Department of Information and Communications Technology. It stipulates that only the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, National Bureau of Investigation, and Armed Forces of the Philippines may acquire such equipment through limited source bidding or direct contracting.

Under the proposal, violators would face six to 12 years in prison and fines ranging from PHP1 million to PHP5 million. Those involved in manufacturing, selling, or distributing wiretapping equipment without a permit would face three to six years in prison, fines of PHP500,000 to PHP2 million, and permanent disqualification from public office if the offender is a government official.