FACTS: Two search warrants were issued to search the premises of
the Metropolitan Mail and We Forum newspapers and the seizure of items alleged to have been used in the crime of subversion. The validity of these warrants were assailed and petitioners further prayed for the return of the seized articles and that respondents be enjoined from using the seized articles as evidence against petitioner and other accused. ISSUE: whether or not the warrants issued were valid to justify the seizure of items. HELD: the Constitution provides, no search warrant or warrant of arrest shall issue except upon probable cause to be determined by the judge, or such other responsible officer as may be authorized by law, after examination under oath or affirmation of the complainant and the witnesses he may produce, and particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. Probable cause for a search is defined as such facts and circumstances which would lead a reasonably discreet and prudent man to believe that an offense has been committed and that the objects sought in connection with the offense are in the place sought to be searched. In the case at bar, the application and its supporting affidavits must contain a specification, stating with particularity the alleged subversive material he has published or is intending to publish. Mere generalization will not suffice. Thus, the broad statement in Col. Abadillas application is a mere conclusion of law and does not satisfy the requirements of probable cause. The warrant is constitutionally objectionable because they are in the nature of general warrants. The search warrants were declared null and void.