PEOPLE Vs WONG CHENG
G.R. No.: L-18924 October 19, 1992
Facts:
Defendant accused of violation of the laws of the land by smoking opium aboard the merchant vessel Changsa, though English nationality, while anchored at Manila Bay.
The lower court dismissed the case as for the allegation of the lack of jurisdiction in the demurrer presented by the defendant’s party.
Issue:
Whether or Not the Philippine courts have jurisdiction over such act even though committed in a merchant vessel of another nationality
Ruling:
Yes. Provided that act shall compromise the public order of the land in accordance with the English rule used during the time of commission. Therefore, smoking opium although on a merchant vessel but anchored in the shores of our country shall be punishable, as the smoke produced, having disastrous effect, will compromise public safety.
Hence the order appealed from is revoked.
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