US vs Bull

15 Phil 259

FACTS:

On December 2, 1908, a steamship vessel from Ampieng, Formosa docked in the port of Manila with 674
heads of cattle. The vessel, named Standard commanded by H.N. Bull which is engaged in transporting
animals. Most of the on board animals get hurt and others have died while on transit due to
inappropriate shelter and for not properly securing the animals.

Action such as cruelty to animals is in contrary to Acts No. 55 and No. 275 of the Philippine Constitution.
However, it is contended that cases cannot be filed because neither was it mentioned that the court
sitting would have jurisdiction on the where the animals were disembarked, nor did it say about ships
not licensed under Philippine laws, like the ship involved.

ISSUE: Does the court have jurisdiction over an offense committed on board a foreign ship while within
Philippine territory?

HELD:

Yes. The Philippines has a complete control and jurisdiction over its territory, including its internal
waters, unless an offense is committed in a foreign ship on the high seas. However, the moment that
said vessel entered into the territorial seas of the country, then automatically the Philippine jurisdiction
applies.

Defendant is therefore found guilty and sentenced to pay a fine with subsidiary imprisonment in case of
insolvency, and to pay the costs.