Falsification of public docs REQUIRES NO gain, benefit or prejudice

The element of gain or benefit on the part of the offender or prejudice to a third party as a result of the falsification, or tarnishing of a document’s integrity, is not essential to maintain a charge for falsification of public documents.
What is punished in falsification of public document is principally the undermining of the public faith and the destruction of truth as solemnly proclaimed therein. In this particular crime, therefore, the controlling consideration lies in the public character of a document; and the existence of any prejudice caused to third persons or, at least, the intent to cause such damage becomes immaterial. (Goma vs. Court of Appeals, G.R. No. 168437, 08 January 2009) ADVERTISEMENT: Work from home! Be an online English tutor. Earn at least PHP100/hour.