violation against security and privacy

I am a Filipino-American who is living and working here in the Philippines for quite sometime. Recently, a certain neighbor opened a letter of mine without my knowledge and my authorization to open it since I don't know them personally. They are not even my relatives. The said letter is a monthly statement bill from one of the leading telecommunication provider in the country.

I talked to them and ask them as to why they open the mail. Their reason is that they think it was theirs. The wife said that she read all what is in there and was shocked for the amount before checking if it is theirs or not. Lo! and behold!, they found out that it is not address to them but it was address to me.

Can i sue them? Is this a form of trespassing? Are they violating the Article III: Bill of Rights Sections 2 and 3 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Is it considered a Crime? How much would be the fine and penalties of these violations?


Please I need help.

Jhon P. Heap

yes it is a crime but the penalty is too small. However, you can seek for damages for violating your right to privacy based on the constitutional provision in relation to civil code on law on human relations.

But for practicality, better settle it amicably.