CLJ 3 CRIMINAL LAW (BOOK 1) 

Studying The Revised Penal Code of the Philippines has enlightened me regarding how laws establish crime, penalties, as well as the circumstances that affect criminal responsibility. I have learned the significance of justifying, exempting, mitigating, aggravating, and alternative circumstances, which affect whether or not a person is guilty and what their punishment should be. Articles 3 to 10 define what is a crime and how it is categorized, and Articles 11 to 15 outline the various factors that may mitigate criminal responsibility. I now realize that some conditions, such as self-defense or insanity, may exculpate an individual from punishment. Also, Articles 16 to 20 discuss who can be criminally responsible and the position of accessories in crime.

I have also learned about how penalties are categorized and enforced. Articles 21 to 24 cover the general principles of penalties, and Articles 25 to 45 detail their categorization and duration in terms of the nature of the crime. This taught me how the law promotes fairness in the criminal justice system. Familiarity with these principles has made my dream of becoming a conscientious criminology practitioner strong. I am more inclined to implement these learnings in practical life and help in upholding law and order in society.